How to route fan belts on a 1984 Pontiac Fiero?

The 1984 Pontiac Fiero's belt routing depends on whether it has air conditioning. There are two different routing diagrams. It's crucial to identify whether your Fiero has AC before proceeding. Looking at the engine bay is the easiest way to do this – if you see an AC compressor, you have air conditioning.

Without Air Conditioning:

The routing is generally simpler without AC. The belt should go around the crankshaft pulley, the alternator pulley, and the water pump pulley. The order should be:

1. Crankshaft pulley: The largest pulley on the engine, typically at the front.

2. Alternator pulley: Usually located to the driver's side (left) of the crankshaft pulley.

3. Water pump pulley: Located closer to the firewall (back of the engine) than the alternator.

With Air Conditioning:

The routing is more complex with air conditioning because the AC compressor is added into the mix. The typical routing is:

1. Crankshaft pulley: The largest pulley on the engine.

2. Power Steering Pump pulley: Often located to the passenger's side (right) of the crankshaft pulley.

3. AC Compressor pulley: Usually positioned between the power steering and alternator pulleys.

4. Alternator pulley: Located on the driver's side.

5. Water pump pulley: Located toward the firewall.

Important Considerations:

* Diagram: The best way to ensure correct routing is to find a diagram specific to your 1984 Pontiac Fiero with or without AC. Consult a repair manual (Haynes or Chilton manuals are good options) for your specific model year and engine type (2.5L Iron Duke or 2.8L V6). Online resources may also have diagrams, but be sure to verify their accuracy.

* Tensioner: The Fiero uses a tensioner pulley to adjust the belt tension. Make sure the tensioner is properly adjusted after routing the belt. There's usually a bolt or other mechanism to adjust it. Consult your repair manual for the correct tension.

* Belt Condition: Before routing, inspect the belt for cracks, fraying, or glazing. Replace it if necessary. Using a worn belt can lead to premature failure and damage to other components.

* Safety: Disconnect the negative battery terminal before working on the belt to prevent accidental short circuits.

In summary: Do not rely solely on this information. Always consult a repair manual or a reliable online resource with diagrams specific to your 1984 Pontiac Fiero to ensure correct belt routing. Incorrect routing can damage engine components.