However, here's a general outline of the steps involved. This is NOT a substitute for a proper repair manual and should only be used as a general guide. Improperly performing this repair can lead to serious injury.
Safety First:
* Disconnect the negative battery terminal before starting any work.
* Use jack stands to securely support the van. Never work under a vehicle supported only by a jack.
* Wear safety glasses to protect your eyes from flying debris.
* Use appropriate tools for the job.
General Steps (May vary significantly):
1. Identify the tensioner pulley: Locate the tensioner pulley on your van's engine. It's usually a component that moves the accessory belt to allow for belt removal and installation.
2. Locate the tensioner pulley release mechanism: This is crucial. Some tensioners use a bolt that needs to be loosened to relieve tension on the belt. Others use a lever or other mechanism. Your repair manual will show you exactly how this works for your specific engine.
3. Release belt tension: Carefully loosen the tensioner pulley bolt (or operate the lever) according to your repair manual's instructions. This will allow you to remove the serpentine belt.
4. Remove the serpentine belt: Once the tension is released, carefully remove the serpentine belt from all the pulleys, including the tensioner pulley.
5. Remove the old tensioner pulley: This usually involves removing one or more bolts securing the pulley to the tensioner assembly. Again, your repair manual will show you the exact procedure.
6. Install the new tensioner pulley: Carefully install the new tensioner pulley, ensuring it's properly aligned and securely fastened with the correct torque. Your repair manual will specify the correct torque value.
7. Reinstall the serpentine belt: Carefully route the serpentine belt around all the pulleys, following the correct routing diagram (found in your repair manual).
8. Check tension: Make sure the belt tension is correct. Some tensioners have a built-in mechanism to indicate the correct tension. If not, you can usually check the belt deflection by hand. Your repair manual will explain how to do this.
9. Reconnect the battery: Reconnect the negative battery terminal.
10. Start the engine: Start the engine and check for any squeaks, squeals, or other unusual noises, indicating a problem with the belt or pulley installation.
Important Considerations:
* Torque Specifications: Use a torque wrench to tighten all bolts to the manufacturer's specified torque. Incorrect torque can damage the components.
* Belt Routing: Incorrect belt routing can cause premature belt wear and damage to engine components. Follow the diagram in your repair manual precisely.
* Pulley Alignment: Ensure the pulley is properly aligned before tightening the bolts. Misalignment can lead to premature wear and failure.
Again, I strongly urge you to consult a repair manual specific to your 1995 Ford Econoline van before attempting this repair. This information is for general guidance only and may not apply to your specific vehicle. If you're uncomfortable performing this repair yourself, it's best to take your van to a qualified mechanic.
