How do you replace the serpentine belt?

linksboomerang · #1 (**permalink**) 08-28-2010, 01:50 AM

Hi! I have a 1999 automatic Altima. The smaller lower belt broke today. I was wondering if anyone could lead me to instructions, hopefully with pictures/video on how to replace the belt. Also, is this the serpentine belt? Thanks!!!

jayjaya29 · #2 (**permalink**) 08-28-2010, 02:36 AM

The lower belt is the AC belt...just loosen the bolt behind the tensioner pulley so you can slip the new belt on and tighten it down.

linksboomerang · #3 (**permalink**) 08-28-2010, 02:51 AM

Thank you! So does this belt only operate the AC? Can I drive it with it broke?

jayjaya29 · #4 (**permalink**) 08-28-2010, 03:06 AM

Quote:

Originally Posted by linksboomerang

Thank you! So does this belt only operate the AC? Can I drive it with it broke?

Yes the lower belt only operates the AC and you can drive with it removed. You just wont have any AC.

linksboomerang · #5 (**permalink**) 08-28-2010, 03:24 AM

So how many belts does a 1999 Altima have??

jayjaya29 · #6 (**permalink**) 08-28-2010, 04:08 AM

2...the lower AC belt and the upper serp belt which runs the alternator, power steering pump, and the water pump.

mlkobefan · #7 (**permalink**) 08-28-2010, 04:35 AM

its easier to access if u remove the cover from behind the passenger front wheel

allblackedout111 · #8 (**permalink**) 08-28-2010, 05:50 AM

To put the new belt on, you will need to loosen the lower idler pulley bolt that goes up and down, then slightly loosen the bolt that is horizontal holding the idler pulley on in the middle. At that point you can push the idler pulley up on it's slider in order to have enough clearance to fit the new belt on.

linksboomerang · #9 (**permalink**) 08-29-2010, 10:03 PM

Thank you for all your help! The belt is actually still on, but frayed and knocking around in the motor. I guess I'm going to go out this afternoon and cut it on off so I can drive it.