GM Service Manual Online
For 1990-2009 cars only

Drive Belt Inspection

  1. Inspect the drive belt for cracks in the belt ribs. If the belt is cracked, determine if the cracks may affect the belt's performance. Replace the belt if the performance is seriously affected. If any sections of the belt ribs are missing, replace the belt. Refer to the applicable removal procedure and to the applicable installation procedure below.

  2. Object Number: 354740  Size: SH
  3. Inspect the belt for the proper alignment on the pulleys.

  4. Object Number: 354741  Size: SH
  5. If the drive belt is improperly aligned, align the drive belt. Refer to the applicable installation procedure below.
  6. Inspect the drive belt tension. Refer to the applicable installation procedure below.

A/C Compressor Drive Belt Removal Procedure

  1. Raise and support the vehicle. Refer to Lifting and Jacking the Vehicle in General Information.
  2. Remove the right front wheel. Refer to Tire and Wheel Removal and Installation in Tires and Wheels.
  3. Remove the 6 push clips and the lower splash shield at the right front side.

  4. Object Number: 354744  Size: SH
  5. Loosen the nut (4) that retains the tension pulley, and loosen the tension bolt (1).
  6. Remove the A/C compressor drive belt (7) from the pulleys.

A/C Compressor Drive Belt Installation Procedure


    Object Number: 354743  Size: SH
  1. Correctly route, and install the A/C compressor drive belt (7) on the following components:
  2. • The compressor pulley (2)
    • The tension pulley (3)
    • The crankshaft pulley (4)

    Object Number: 354740  Size: SH
  3. Align the drive belt on the pulleys.

  4. Object Number: 354743  Size: SH
  5. Use thumb pressure in order to inspect the tension of the A/C compressor drive belt.

  6. Object Number: 354744  Size: SH
  7. Turn the tension bolt (1) in order to adjust the drive belt tension to the specifications.
  8. Notice: Use the correct fastener in the correct location. Replacement fasteners must be the correct part number for that application. Fasteners requiring replacement or fasteners requiring the use of thread locking compound or sealant are identified in the service procedure. Do not use paints, lubricants, or corrosion inhibitors on fasteners or fastener joint surfaces unless specified. These coatings affect fastener torque and joint clamping force and may damage the fastener. Use the correct tightening sequence and specifications when installing fasteners in order to avoid damage to parts and systems.

  9. Secure the tension pulley lock nut (4).
  10. Tighten
    Tighten the lock nut to 45 N·m (33 lb ft).

  11. Install the lower splash shield at the right front side. Secure the splash shield with six push clips.
  12. Install the right front wheel. Refer to Tire and Wheel Removal and Installation in Tires and Wheels.
  13. Lower the vehicle.

Generator Drive Belt Removal Procedure

    Caution: Unless directed otherwise, the ignition and start switch must be in the OFF or LOCK position, and all electrical loads must be OFF before servicing any electrical component. Disconnect the negative battery cable to prevent an electrical spark should a tool or equipment come in contact with an exposed electrical terminal. Failure to follow these precautions may result in personal injury and/or damage to the vehicle or its components.

  1. Disconnect the negative battery cable.
  2. Remove the A/C compressor drive belt, if necessary. Refer to the removal procedure above.

  3. Object Number: 262545  Size: SH
  4. Loosen the adjuster bolt of the generator drive belt.
  5. Pivot the generator, and remove the accessory drive belt (1).

Generator Drive Belt Installation Procedure


    Object Number: 168876  Size: SH
  1. Correctly route and install the generator drive belt on the pulleys.
  2. Adjust the drive belt tension to the specifications:
  3. Tighten
    Tighten the adjuster bolt of the generator drive belt to 23 N·m (17 lb ft)

    • 6-8 mm (0.24-0.31 in) with 10 kg (22 lbs) of pressure on a used belt.
    • 5-7 mm (0.20-0.27 in) with 10 kg (22 lbs) of pressure on a new belt
  4. Install the A/C compressor drive belt, if necessary. Refer to the installation procedure above.
  5. Connect the negative battery cable.
  6. Tighten
    Tighten the battery cable nut to 15 N·m (11 lb ft)