The serpentine belt came off. Can a novice replace it?

Asked by Tuesday13 Mar 08, 2015 at 03:32 AM about the 2002 Chevrolet S-10 LS Extended Cab RWD

Question type: Maintenance & Repair

The mechanic just replaced the water filter. While driving the next night, there was an
odd noise that got progressively louder.  I stopped and listened.  I gently revved the
engine and there was a little 'ping'.  I think that is when the bolt fell out.  What did it fall
out of?  Well, let me fess up right now - I'm an old woman who knows nothing about
cars.  So, the bolt fell out of the part the fan is attached to.  There should have been
four bolts.  I found two, neither of which was in place. I think I can put the bolts back
in and realign the belt, but is the belt sensitive to torque, tension, anything like that?  If
I get it back on, am I good to go? Or is this something I have to have the mechanic
do?

1 Answer

19,085

the water pump pulley definitely needs the four bolts to prevent that from occuring. also, when reattaching the belt, that belt will be under tension.tighten bolt to about 14 pound pressure;no need to exert too much force on it.

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