Tools You'll Need:
* New serpentine belt: Make sure you get the correct belt for your specific engine. The part number is found in your owner's manual or at an auto parts store.
* Wrench(es): Likely a combination of metric wrenches and possibly a ratchet and sockets. The sizes needed will depend on the tensioner pulley.
* Socket set: Helpful for accessing bolts and possibly the tensioner.
* Pliers (possibly needle-nose): May be needed to help route the belt.
* Jack and jack stands: Essential for safety. Never work under a vehicle supported only by a jack.
* Wheel chocks: To prevent the vehicle from rolling.
* Gloves: To protect your hands.
* Shop rags or paper towels: For cleanup.
* Possibly a belt tensioner tool: Specific tools are available to compress the tensioner, making belt removal and installation easier. Improvised methods using a pry bar or similar are possible, but risky and not recommended. Using the correct tool is safest and most efficient.
Steps:
1. Safety First: Park your Tracker on a level surface, engage the parking brake, and chock the wheels. Jack up the front of the vehicle and securely support it with jack stands. Never work under a vehicle supported only by a jack.
2. Locate the Serpentine Belt: Identify the serpentine belt and its path around the various pulleys (crankshaft, alternator, power steering pump, etc.). Take a picture or make a diagram of the routing – this will be crucial when reinstalling the belt.
3. Release Belt Tension: This is the most challenging part. The Tracker likely uses a spring-loaded tensioner pulley. You'll need to locate this pulley (it's usually on the side of the engine) and use the correct tool (or a carefully planned method with a pry bar if you don't have a specific tool—use caution). The goal is to relieve tension on the belt to allow it to be slipped off the pulleys.
4. Remove the Belt: Carefully guide the belt off each pulley, working from the tensioner pulley outward. If your tensioner pulley is accessible with a bolt that can be loosened, you may be able to loosen that to release tension, but this approach requires caution and careful study of your vehicle's components.
5. Install the New Belt: Carefully route the new serpentine belt around all the pulleys in the same order it was removed. Remember to use your picture or diagram as a guide. Make sure the belt sits correctly in all the grooves.
6. Release Tensioner: Once the belt is routed, carefully release the tensioner. Ensure the belt is snug on all pulleys.
7. Check the Belt: Visually inspect the new belt to ensure it's properly seated and running smoothly. Rotate the engine by hand (crankshaft pulley) to check for interference or binding.
8. Lower the Vehicle: Carefully lower the vehicle from the jack stands.
9. Start the Engine: Start the engine and listen for any unusual noises. Check for proper functioning of all components driven by the belt (alternator, power steering, AC compressor, etc.).
Important Considerations:
* Tensioner Tool: Using the proper tool for compressing the tensioner is highly recommended. Improvised methods can lead to damage to the tensioner, the belt, or other components.
* Belt Routing: Pay extremely close attention to the belt routing. Installing it incorrectly can cause the belt to slip or break.
* Torque Specifications: If you loosen any bolts, make sure to tighten them to the manufacturer's specified torque. This information is usually found in a repair manual.
* Professional Help: If you are uncomfortable with any of these steps, it's best to have a qualified mechanic perform the replacement.
This guide provides general instructions. Referencing a repair manual specific to your 2001 Chevrolet Tracker is crucial for accurate and safe belt replacement. Remember, working on your vehicle involves potential risk; always prioritize safety.
