Here's a general guide. Remember that specific procedures and tools may vary slightly depending on your engine (2.4L or 2.7L). Consult a repair manual specific to your vehicle's year, make, model, and engine for precise instructions and diagrams. A Haynes or Chilton manual is a good investment.
Tools You'll Need:
* New serpentine belt: Make sure you get the correct size and type. Your auto parts store can help you with this, providing your VIN.
* Wrench set (metric): You'll likely need various sizes to loosen and tighten bolts.
* Socket set (metric) and ratchet: Useful for accessing difficult-to-reach fasteners.
* Jack and jack stands: Essential for safe working conditions. Never work under a car supported only by a jack.
* Wheel chocks: To prevent the car from rolling.
* Pliers: Possibly needed for adjusting belt tensioner.
* Screwdrivers (Phillips and flathead): May be needed depending on your vehicle.
* Gloves: Protect your hands.
* Shop rags or paper towels: For cleaning.
* A belt tensioner tool (optional but highly recommended): This tool makes the job significantly easier, especially on the Chrysler Sebring's tensioner. Without it, you might need to use a pry bar or other makeshift tools, which risk damaging the tensioner.
Steps (General):
1. Safety First: Park on a level surface, engage the parking brake, and use wheel chocks. Raise the vehicle using a jack and securely support it with jack stands. Disconnect the negative battery terminal.
2. Locate the Serpentine Belt: Identify the serpentine belt routing around the various pulleys (crankshaft, alternator, power steering pump, air conditioning compressor, etc.). Take a picture or make a diagram before removing the belt – this will be crucial for reinstallation.
3. Release Belt Tension: This is the trickiest part. The 2000 Sebring typically has a spring-loaded tensioner. This usually requires a special tool or a careful maneuver with a wrench to depress the tensioner while slipping the belt off. Refer to your repair manual for the specific procedure and the location of the tensioner. Using the right tool will save you frustration and potential damage.
4. Remove the Old Belt: Once tension is released, carefully route the belt off each pulley.
5. Install the New Belt: Carefully reverse the process. Route the new belt onto each pulley following your diagram or photo. Ensure the belt is seated correctly on all pulleys.
6. Re-engage Belt Tensioner: Release the tensioner tool or whatever method you used. The tensioner should automatically re-engage.
7. Check Belt Tension: Try to deflect the belt about halfway between pulleys. It should have a bit of give, but shouldn't be excessively loose or tight. Again, your repair manual will likely provide specifications.
8. Lower the Vehicle: Carefully lower the vehicle from the jack stands.
9. Reconnect the Battery: Reconnect the negative battery terminal.
10. Start the Engine: Start the engine and check for any squealing or unusual noises. If there are problems, carefully recheck your work.
Important Considerations:
* Belt Routing: Getting the belt routed correctly is crucial. An incorrectly routed belt can cause premature wear or damage to the components it drives.
* Tension: Too little tension leads to slippage and squealing; too much tension puts undue stress on the belt and pulleys.
* Tensioner Condition: Inspect the belt tensioner for wear or damage while you're working. Replace it if necessary.
* Pulley Condition: Check pulleys for grooves or damage. Damaged pulleys can quickly destroy a new belt.
This is a general guide. Always consult a repair manual specific to your vehicle for detailed instructions and torque specifications. If you're not comfortable performing this repair, take your vehicle to a qualified mechanic to avoid potential damage.
