However, if you're determined to do it yourself, here's a general outline. Remember, this is a general guide and may not be perfectly accurate for your specific vehicle. Always consult your vehicle's repair manual for precise instructions and diagrams.
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.
* Socket wrench set: You'll need various sizes, likely including metric sizes.
* Ratchets: Both 3/8" and 1/2" drive ratchets are usually helpful.
* Wrench set: Both metric and standard sizes.
* Screwdrivers: Both Phillips and flathead.
* Jack and jack stands: Essential for safety. Never work under a car supported only by a jack.
* Wheel chocks: To secure the vehicle.
* Gloves: To protect your hands.
* Safety glasses: To protect your eyes.
* Pliers: Possibly needed to help with belt routing.
* Belt tensioner tool: This is often a specialized tool to release the tension on the tensioner pulley, allowing you to remove the belt. Some can be loosened with a socket wrench. This is crucial; attempting to remove the belt without properly releasing tension can cause damage.
* Owner's manual: Consult it for specific torque specifications and diagrams.
Steps (General - Consult your repair manual for specifics):
1. Safety First: Park on a level surface, engage the parking brake, and use wheel chocks. Jack up the vehicle and securely support it on jack stands.
2. Locate the Belt: Identify the serpentine belt and its routing around the various pulleys. Take pictures or make notes of the routing before removing it. This is crucial for reinstallation.
3. Release Tension: This is the most challenging part. You need to locate the belt tensioner pulley. It will have a mechanism (often a pivot point) to release tension on the belt. You'll need to use the appropriate tool (often a socket wrench) to loosen the tensioner. The repair manual will show you where the tensioner is and how to operate it.
4. Remove the Belt: Once tension is released, carefully remove the belt from the pulleys.
5. Install the New Belt: Route the new belt following the path you documented earlier. Make sure it's seated correctly on all the pulleys.
6. Re-tension the Belt: Tighten the belt tensioner to the correct specification as given in your repair manual.
7. Check Tension: Manually check the tension of the new belt. It should have a slight give but not be too loose.
8. Lower the Vehicle: Carefully lower the vehicle from the jack stands.
9. Test Run: Start the engine and listen for any unusual noises. Check for belt slippage. If everything seems fine, you're done.
Important Considerations:
* Tensioner Pulley: The condition of the tensioner pulley itself should be checked. If it's worn or damaged, it should be replaced as well.
* Belt Alignment: Ensure the belt is properly aligned on all pulleys to avoid premature wear and tear.
* Torque Specifications: Always refer to your repair manual for the proper torque specifications for all bolts and fasteners. Over-tightening can damage components.
Again, this is a general outline. Your 2000 Pontiac Grand Am repair manual is your best resource. It will provide specific instructions, diagrams, and torque specifications for your particular model and engine. If you're not comfortable with this repair, please take your car to a professional. Improper repair can lead to engine damage.
