Tools You'll Need:
* New serpentine belt: Make sure you get the correct belt for your specific 1995 Ford Aspire engine. The belt's length is critical. Check your owner's manual or a parts store for the correct part number.
* Wrench(es): You'll likely need a few different sizes, depending on the tensioner pulley's bolt. Likely 10mm, 13mm and possibly others. Check your car to be sure.
* Socket wrench and ratchet: This will make loosening the tensioner much easier.
* Socket extension(s): May be needed to reach the tensioner bolt.
* Pliers or channel-locks: Might be needed to help with the tensioner depending on the bolt design.
* Gloves: Protect your hands.
* Jack and jack stands (or ramps): For safer and easier access to the engine compartment. Never work under a car supported only by a jack.
* Wheel chocks: For added safety.
Steps:
1. Safety First: Park the car on a level surface, engage the parking brake, and chock the wheels. Raise the car using the jack and secure it on jack stands. This provides safe access and prevents accidental rolling.
2. Locate the Serpentine Belt: Open the hood and identify the serpentine belt. It's the long, ribbed belt that runs around several pulleys (crankshaft, alternator, power steering pump, etc.).
3. Locate the Belt Tensioner: The tensioner is a pulley with a mechanism to adjust the belt's tension. It usually has a bolt that needs to be loosened or a lever that needs to be manipulated. This is crucial to get the belt off. Your car *might* have a spring-loaded tensioner or a lever-style tensioner.
4. Release Belt Tension: This is the trickiest part. The method depends on your tensioner design:
* Spring-loaded tensioner: You'll typically need to use a wrench (or socket and ratchet) to loosen the tensioner bolt. This will allow the tensioner to pivot, relieving tension on the belt. Sometimes a long-handled wrench or a breaker bar is helpful for extra leverage. *Be cautious not to let the tensioner spring out suddenly and injure yourself*. Use a wrench and socket or pliers to hold it in the relaxed position (you may need a second person or a way to hold this in place until the belt is removed).
* Lever-style tensioner: Some models use a lever mechanism. You'll need to move this lever to release the tension. Consult a repair manual for specifics on how to do this, as it varies depending on the vehicle.
5. Remove the Old Belt: Once the tension is released, carefully work the belt off the pulleys. Start from the largest pulley and work your way around.
6. Install the New Belt: Carefully route the new belt around the pulleys in the same order as the old belt. It usually goes around the crankshaft pulley first. Make sure to route it correctly, as the routing is specific to the engine. A picture of the original routing is helpful.
7. Tighten the Tensioner: Once the new belt is in place, slowly tighten the tensioner back to its original position. This should automatically tension the belt.
8. Check Belt Alignment and Tension: Make sure the belt is properly seated on all the pulleys and that there's adequate tension. You should be able to gently push down on the longest section of the belt and have it snap back to its original position with some force. Too much tension can strain components, and too little will cause the belt to slip.
9. Lower the Car: Carefully lower the car from the jack stands.
10. Start the Engine and Check: Start the engine and check for any unusual noises (squeaking, squealing). Check the belt for proper movement and to be certain it isn't too loose or too tight.
Important Considerations:
* Repair Manual: A repair manual specific to your 1995 Ford Aspire is highly recommended. It will provide diagrams and detailed instructions for your specific model.
* Photos: Before removing the old belt, take pictures of its routing around the pulleys. This will be invaluable when installing the new belt.
* Professional Help: If you are uncomfortable performing this repair, consider taking your car to a qualified mechanic. Improperly installed belts can cause serious damage to your engine.
This guide provides general instructions. The exact procedure may vary slightly depending on your specific engine configuration. Always prioritize safety and consult a repair manual for detailed information specific to your vehicle.
