Dummies' guide to replacing alternator belt

[NIX]

As title says.

I have limited tools and limited knowledge, but have bought a new belt as my current one seems to squeel now and then when I first start the car so I'm guessin its on its way out.

I have a 325i.

Any advise much appreciated!

Thanks,

Nick

[dazleeds]

you should be able to just l;oosen the adjuster nut and replace the belt
get your jack handle or bar behind to tension the the alternator when your retightening the bolt
job done

[aus325]

Check the condition of the adjuster and nut too.. I noticed the teeth were stripped on my adjuster when I was putting everything back together after a timing belt change. I bought a new adjuster and nut really cheaply from the dealer. You don't want the tension going slack, 'cos this belt also drives the water pump.

[NIX]

Thanks very much guys!!!

So what tools will be needed?

[Brianmoooore]

get your jack handle or bar behind to tension the the alternator

Eh!! There's a rack and pinion on the adjuster to tension the belt!
Don't slacken the locknut too much, or the rack will slip past the edge of the pinion and screw the teeth up, and don't overtighten the belt.
Half inch of deflection under moderate finger pressure on the longest run.
Chances are that all your existing belt needs is tightening, but, if you've bought them, then you may as well fit them.

[Brianmoooore]

Thanks very much guys!!!

So what tools will be needed?

13mm and 17mm (or is it 19mm?) spanners.

[NIX]

Thanks!!!

As always, its appreciated!

How long do you reckon it should take for a novice?

What belts are worth changing while I'm at it that are gonna be just as easy to do?

[Brianmoooore]

You have to take off the steering belt to get at the fan/altenator belt, so change this as well if it needs it.

[abelai]

It's a 19mm and a 13mm for the alternator tensioner.

Also for ease of access use a 32mm viscus fan spanner and get the fan out of the way removing the cowling with it loads more space now change your dissy cap and rota arm while your there aswell, don't be tight Nick. You can also spend some time looking at all the lovely oil leaks while your there

Enjoy.

[Brianmoooore]

All you have to reove for access is the air filter box. Two 10mm nuts and a hose clip.

[NIX]

Are all these bits best to get from BMW or will a local motorfactors do? I got the altenater belt from a local motorfactor. Not too bothered about cost, its just so much easier because there's one 30 seconds away from where I work, whereas the nearest BMW parts garage is miles away and incovenient to get to due to work throughout the week. What about mail order, like ECP? Again how does this compare to a local motorfactor?

[Brianmoooore]

Motofactor good quality belt should me fine.
"Made in China" on the sleeve is probably not a good sign, though.