General Steps (Remember to consult your repair manual for specifics):
1. Safety First: Disconnect the negative battery cable to prevent accidental shorts.
2. Identify Belts: Your car likely has multiple belts – one for the alternator, one for the power steering pump, and possibly one for the air conditioning compressor. Note their routing *before* removing any. Take pictures if necessary.
3. Locate and Release Tensioner: The 2.8L V6 likely uses a tensioner pulley to keep the belt taut. This tensioner will need to be released to remove and replace the belts. The exact mechanism varies (it might be a spring-loaded tensioner you rotate with a wrench, a hydraulic tensioner, etc.). Your repair manual will show you exactly how to do this. Do not attempt this without knowing how the tensioner works – you could injure yourself or damage the tensioner.
4. Remove Old Belts: Once the tension is released, carefully slip the belts off the pulleys.
5. Inspect Pulleys and Belts: Before installing new belts, inspect the pulleys for any damage or wear. Also, check the condition of the idler pulleys and tensioner. Replace any worn or damaged components.
6. Install New Belts: Following the routing diagram from your repair manual, carefully place the new belts onto each pulley. Ensure they are properly seated on all pulleys.
7. Release Tensioner (Slowly): Carefully release the tensioner slowly, allowing the belt to seat onto the pulleys. Make sure the belt sits correctly on all the grooves of each pulley.
8. Check Belt Tension: After installing the belts, check the tension. It shouldn't be too tight or too loose. Again, your repair manual will specify the correct tension. You may need a belt tension gauge for accurate measurement.
9. Reconnect Battery Cable: Reconnect the negative battery cable.
10. Start Engine and Check: Start the engine and carefully listen for any squealing or unusual noises. Check that all pulleys are rotating smoothly.
Belt Rotation:
The belts rotate in the direction the engine cranks. Therefore, on a typical V6, the belts will rotate clockwise when viewed from the front of the engine (the radiator side). However, this is general and the exact direction can be seen once you've located and removed the belts. Confirm this by observation.
Crucially Important Note: Attempting this without a repair manual specific to your 1985 Chevy Celebrity 2.8L V6 is highly discouraged. The specific tensioner release mechanism and belt routing are crucial pieces of information you need for a safe and successful repair. Improper installation can lead to belt slippage, broken belts, damaged engine components, and even injury. A repair manual will give you visual guidance and prevent mistakes.
