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How do you change the serpentine belt on a 1997 E320 Mercedes?

Step-by-Step Guide to Replacing the Serpentine Belt in a 1997 E320 Mercedes

Tools Needed:

- Ratchet and socket set

- 15 mm socket

- New serpentine belt

Instructions:

1. Preparation

- Allow the car's engine to cool down before beginning.

- Open the hood and locate the serpentine belt.

- Park your vehicle on level ground and engage the parking brake.

2. Turn Off the Engine and Engage the Parking Brake

- Turn off the engine and allow it to cool down completely.

- Engage the parking brake to prevent the vehicle from rolling.

3. Remove the Front Right Tire

- Loosen the lug nuts on the front right tire using a lug wrench.

- Use a car jack to lift the vehicle and support it with jack stands placed at the designated jack points.

- Remove the lug nuts and take off the front right tire.

4. Locate the Tensioner

- Locate the tensioner pulley, responsible for keeping the serpentine belt at the proper tension.

5. Release Tension

- Use the ratchet and 15 mm socket to turn the tensioner clockwise to release tension on the serpentine belt.

6. Remove the Belt

- With the tension released, remove the old serpentine belt from around all the pulleys.

7. Install the New Belt

- Place the new serpentine belt around all the pulleys except the tensioner.

- Ensure the belt is properly seated around all pulleys.

8. Tension the Belt

- Slowly turn the tensioner counterclockwise to apply tension on the new belt.

- Refer to the vehicle's manual or specifications for the correct belt tension.

9. Reattach the Front Tire

- Tighten the lug nuts to secure the front right tire.

- Lower the vehicle using the car jack and remove the jack stands.

10. Final Check

- Double-check that the belt is properly seated around all pulleys and the tension is correct.

- Close the hood and start the engine to verify the belt is working correctly.

Remember, if you're not comfortable performing this procedure, it's best to consult with a qualified mechanic or have the work done at a reputable auto repair shop.