started timing belt change - how to access the alternator pivot bolt?

[BLUE89TURBO]

Hey guys,

so I started the timing belt swap and had encoutered my first snag.

how do i access the pivot bolton the alternator? i cant find a way to get to the bolt.

Maybe if i remove the oil filter, but i dont want to do that...

Anyone have suggestions?


Thanks
J

 

[MIdsm]

Use an extension or two and go through the front bumper opening right next to power steering cooler. Push the socket up and then reach with the free hand and put it on the bolt. I hope this helps.

Good luck



...oops I just realized that you meant pivot bolt, not tensioner.

 

[MIdsm]

I just went outside and took a look. I don't have the AC fan so I can reach it from top/front using a ratchet and a short socket. I hope this helps.

 

[Spyderman7]

Remove the filter.Look at it as a chance to change your oil.You can do it without, but it's easier.

 

[importboost]

i can reach it from the top, then again i dont have a/c....best way i can see it is to take the filter off

 

[tranman91]

Are you trying to take out the pivot bolt and remove the alternator?...anyways...this is what i do to access the bolt and is pretty easy...

The nut on the bolt is a 12mm(left side of alternator)...you can just use a open/closed end wrench to reach this...and to access the bolt itself...the easiest way is to remove the lower splash guard on the driver side wheel.

You don't even need to take off the wheel(just turn it)...and once the lower splash guard is removed...you will have to get down on the ground...but the bolt is well accessible.

There is no need to take off the oil filter...

 

[stars]

The pivot bolt is is around 3 inches to the right of the alternator pulley. The alt belt rides right in front of the pivot bolt. It it just a long bolt with a nut and washer. Do not remove the oil filter your not even close to the pivot bolts location.

 

[Talon_BodyMan]

I agree you don't have to remove the oil filter to get at the bolt I'm actually in the process right of replacing the timing belt water pump and some other stuff in the general area. And I must say that it is one of the most difficult cars I've ever worked on. I can barely stick my hands in some of the places that the Chilton book tells me to. But its something that needs to be done and I'd much rather do it myself then pay someone, besides whats the fun in having something if you don't know how it works.

Oh and by the way how long did it take you guys to do your frist timing belt, cuz I can already tell it's gonna take me awhile at least all day tomorrow and possible monday night.

~Mark

 

[Defiant]

Hey guys,

so I started the timing belt swap and had encoutered my first snag.

how do i access the pivot bolton the alternator? i cant find a way to get to the bolt.

In all seriousness, you may be ahead to have a shop do that belt job for you.

 

[beantowntsi]

I don't know what you are looken for but the alt. bolts are 1 to the left bottom and the other is to the right you mite have to spin the pulley a bit to get to it don't make it harder than it is just look good and you will see it.

 

[BLUE89TURBO]

In all seriousness, you may be ahead to have a shop do that belt job for you.

Thanks, your words of wisdom really helped me out.

Anyway, I ended up removing the fan and the rest of the job was pretty straight forward.

She's running like new...