1. Identify Your Belt Routing:
* Diagram: The best starting point is a diagram specific to your year and model car. Your owner's manual might have one, or you can find one online through a parts website like AutoZone, Advance Auto Parts, or RockAuto by searching for your vehicle's year, make, and model. These diagrams usually show the belt routing with and without the smog pump.
* Visual Inspection (Before Removal): Carefully examine the belt path *before* you remove anything. Take photos from multiple angles. This will help you reconstruct it later.
2. Removing the Smog Pump:
* Disconnect the Pump: Disconnect all vacuum lines and any electrical connectors to the smog pump.
* Remove the Pump: Loosen the mounting bolts holding the smog pump to the engine. The exact location and number of bolts will vary.
3. Rerouting the Belt:
* Refer to Your Diagram: Follow the diagram to determine the new routing after removing the smog pump. The diagram should show the revised path.
* General Steps (Adapt to your specific diagram): The process generally involves routing the belt around the remaining pulleys (alternator, power steering pump, water pump, crankshaft pulley, etc.) You may need to loosen the tensioner pulley to make the belt fit correctly. Usually, you'll find that the belt's path skips the smog pump pulley entirely.
* Tensioner Pulley: Locate the serpentine belt tensioner. This is usually a pulley with a pivot point and a way to apply tension (often a bolt that you turn or a lever that you push/pull). Loosen the tensioner to create slack in the belt, allowing you to easily route it around the pulleys. Once routed, slowly release the tensioner to put the correct tension on the belt.
4. Checking Belt Tension:
* Correct Tension: The belt should have a slight deflection when pressed. If it's too loose, it will squeal and likely fail prematurely. If it's too tight, it will put unnecessary stress on the bearings and pulleys.
5. Important Considerations:
* Belt Length: You might need a shorter serpentine belt after removing the smog pump. Refer to your diagram or a parts website to determine the correct replacement belt length.
* Safety: Use jack stands and ensure the vehicle is secure before working under it.
* Tools: You'll need a socket set, wrenches, and possibly a serpentine belt tensioner tool (depending on your car's design).
Without a diagram specific to your vehicle, providing precise instructions is impossible. Finding and using that diagram is the crucial first step. If you're uncomfortable working on your vehicle, consult a qualified mechanic. Improper belt routing can damage your engine's components.
