AboutRoland Finston Expertise I take questions about domestic Chrysler-product front wheel drive cars and minivans for the years 1982-2000 based upon my experience and shop manuals. I don't have detailed information (e.g. manuals) nor expertise for Jeeps, trucks, SUV's, import vehicles, or for years more recent than 2000 (except Sebring I have thru '03).
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Experience I have been a do-it-yourself auto hobbyist for 5 decades, and most recently have been concentrating on the various Chrysler Corporation domestic front wheel drive cars and vans. I have shop manuals and wiring diagrams for many models for the years '83-'00, as well as rear wheel drive cars for the early 80's. I enjoy analyzing problems that other Chrysler enthusiasts are having and sharing my information.
Organizations belong to Group co-moderator of the Yahoo autos group The Chrysler LeBaron Club
Expert: Roland Finston Date: 5/14/2008 Subject: '99 3.0L serpentine belt tensioner pulley
Question Hi Roland, Trying to replace shredding serpentine belt. Prior email you have on the topic tells me you're talking about identical belt route so I've got the right engine. However, I can't get "arm to rotate clockwise" to generate slack at the the tension pulley. Looks to me like the tension pulley is fixed. Can't move it. Don't have a great look at it or access to it. Sits below alternator and behind/left of the idler pulley. Thanks.
Answer Hi Dave,
My '98 manual for the 3.0L as used in the van does say that the tension for that belt is relieved by rotating the nut on the tensioner pulley shaft clockwise (as you observe it from the front on the engine. Is it possible that you have a much earlier version (like an '89 tensioner?) because that one worked counter-clockwise?
I don't know what to suggest. Are you putting your wrench on the pulley shaft nut, or maybe you are trying to rotate the nut on the shaft of the tension arm itself which is incorrect. For better viewing you could jack up the right front wheel, remove the tire, and then remove the splash shield/inner fender panel so you could see better what is going on.
Roland
