Before you begin:
* Consult your owner's manual: This will provide specific torque specifications and diagrams unique to your vehicle.
* Gather your tools: You'll need a socket wrench set (metric), a ratchet, extensions, a serpentine belt tool (or a pry bar and a good understanding of how to use it safely), jack stands, and possibly a torque wrench. A new serpentine belt and tensioner pulley assembly are essential. Gloves are recommended.
* Safety First: Always disconnect the negative battery terminal before starting any work on your car's electrical system. Use jack stands to support the car safely. Never work under a car supported only by a jack. Wear safety glasses.
Steps (General Outline – Consult your repair manual for specifics):
1. Access: Locate the serpentine belt and tensioner. On most LeSabres, this will require accessing the front of the engine compartment. You may need to remove some plastic covers or other components for better access.
2. Tensioner Release: This is the most crucial and potentially tricky step. The tensioner pulley needs to be released to allow you to remove the old serpentine belt. There are a couple of ways to do this:
* Tensioner Tool: The easiest method is to use a serpentine belt tensioner tool. This tool is specifically designed to apply pressure to the tensioner, allowing you to release the belt.
* Pry Bar Method (Use with Extreme Caution): A pry bar can be used, but you need to be extremely careful. Position the pry bar on the tensioner pulley (consult a diagram to ensure you are applying pressure in the correct direction – applying pressure incorrectly can cause damage) and leverage it to release the tension on the belt. Be extremely cautious not to slip or damage any components.
3. Belt Removal: Once the tension is released, carefully remove the old serpentine belt from the pulleys. Note the routing of the belt – it's helpful to take a picture before removing it.
4. Tensioner Replacement: Remove the old tensioner pulley assembly. This usually involves removing bolts. Note the orientation of any components before removing them to ensure correct reinstallation. Install the new tensioner assembly using the original bolts. Tighten according to the torque specifications in your owner's manual.
5. Belt Installation: Carefully install the new serpentine belt, ensuring it's routed correctly around all the pulleys. This must match the routing of the old belt.
6. Tensioner Adjustment: After installing the new belt, ensure the tensioner is properly adjusted. The belt should have a slight deflection when pressed. The amount of deflection is specified in your repair manual.
7. Test: Reconnect the negative battery terminal. Start the engine and check for any squealing or other unusual noises. Inspect the belt to ensure it is running correctly.
Important Considerations:
* Repair Manual: A repair manual specific to your 1997 Buick LeSabre is highly recommended. It will provide detailed diagrams, torque specifications, and troubleshooting steps. You can usually find these online or at auto parts stores.
* Professional Help: If you're not comfortable performing this repair yourself, consider taking your vehicle to a qualified mechanic. Improper installation can lead to costly repairs.
This is a general guide; consult a repair manual for your specific vehicle's procedures and torque specifications. Attempting this repair without the proper knowledge and tools can result in damage to your vehicle. Proceed with caution and prioritize safety.
