Here's a general outline. Specifics may vary slightly depending on your engine (3.8L V6 is most common). Consult your owner's manual for diagrams and exact specifications for your vehicle. This is not a substitute for your owner's manual.
Tools You'll Need:
* New serpentine belt: Make sure you get the correct belt for your specific engine. The belt size is usually printed on the old belt itself. Auto parts stores can help you find the right one.
* Socket wrench set: Including metric sockets. You'll likely need a few different sizes.
* Wrench set: Again, metric.
* Ratcheting wrench: Makes things much easier.
* Pliers: Possibly needle-nose for reaching small components.
* Jack and jack stands: Crucial for safety! Never work under a car supported only by a jack.
* Wheel chocks: To further secure the vehicle.
* Gloves: To protect your hands.
* Shop rags or paper towels: To clean up any spills or grime.
* Optional: Belt tensioner wrench: Some tensioners have specific tools, but often a long wrench or breaker bar can work.
* Optional: Belt routing diagram: A picture of how the belt goes around the pulleys. Find one online or in your repair manual.
Procedure:
1. Safety First: Park on a level surface, engage the parking brake, and use wheel chocks. Raise the front of the car using a jack and securely support it with jack stands.
2. Locate the Belt: The serpentine belt runs around various pulleys (alternator, power steering pump, water pump, etc.).
3. Identify the Tensioner: Find the belt tensioner; this is a pulley with a mechanism to loosen the belt. It might be spring-loaded or require a specific tool.
4. Loosen the Tensioner: This is the most crucial and potentially tricky step. You'll need to use a wrench or the specialized tool to loosen the tensioner, creating slack in the belt. This usually involves turning a bolt or lever. Be careful; the tensioner is under spring pressure and can snap back quickly.
5. Remove the Old Belt: Once there's enough slack, carefully remove the old belt from the pulleys. Work your way around the pulleys, guiding the belt off.
6. Install the New Belt: Carefully route the new belt onto the pulleys, following the correct path (use a diagram if necessary). Make sure the belt sits in all the grooves correctly.
7. Tighten the Tensioner: Release the tensioner, allowing it to pull the belt taut.
8. Check the Belt Tension: The belt should have a slight give but not be too loose. Consult your owner's manual for the proper tension.
9. Lower the Vehicle: Carefully lower the vehicle from the jack stands.
10. Start the Engine: Start the engine and check for any squealing or unusual noises. If you hear anything, shut off the engine immediately and re-check the belt routing and tension.
11. Check Fluid Levels: After running the engine, check the levels of your power steering fluid and coolant, as a loose belt might have caused some leakage.
Important Considerations:
* Belt Routing: Getting the belt routing wrong is a common mistake. A diagram is essential.
* Tensioner: Applying too much or too little tension can damage the belt or other components.
* Broken Parts: If you encounter any broken or severely worn parts during the process, replace them.
This is a general guide. Always consult your owner's manual or a repair manual specific to your 1998 Buick Park Avenue for detailed instructions and diagrams. If you're unsure about any step, seeking professional help is highly recommended. Improperly installing the belt can cause significant damage to your engine.
