Tools Needed:
1. Socket wrench
2. Ratchet
3. ⅜ inch drive
4. 10mm and 15mm sockets
5. Belt tensioner tool (if necessary)
Procedure:
1. Park your car in a safe location and allow the engine to cool down completely. Engage the parking brake to ensure the vehicle doesn't roll during the repair.
2. Locate the serpentine belt. It is usually on the front of the engine and wraps around several pulleys, including the crankshaft, water pump, power steering pump, alternator, and air conditioning compressor.
3. Find the belt tensioner. This is a device that keeps the belt at the proper tension. On some Buick Park Avenue models, the tensioner may be automatic, while others have a manual tensioner that you need to adjust.
4. If your vehicle has an automatic tensioner, skip this step. If it has a manual tensioner, loosen the tensioner using the socket wrench and appropriate socket size. This will create slack in the belt.
5. Slip the old belt off the pulleys. Start with the longest section and work your way around the pulleys, removing the belt from each one.
6. Inspect the belt for wear and damage. If the belt is cracked, frayed, or has missing ribs, it must be replaced.
7. Place the new serpentine belt onto the pulleys. Start by routing it around the longest section and then work your way around the other pulleys. Make sure the belt is properly seated on each pulley.
8. Apply tension to the belt using the tensioner if applicable. For models with a manual tensioner, use the socket wrench to tighten the tensioner until the belt is snug but not too tight.
9. Double-check the belt alignment on all pulleys. Ensure it's positioned correctly and sitting deeply in the grooves of the pulleys.
10. Start the engine and allow it to run for a few minutes. Observe the belt for any signs of slipping, misalignment, or unusual noise.
11. Turn off the engine and inspect the belt again. Ensure it remains properly tensioned and doesn't show signs of wear.
Note: If you're uncomfortable performing this repair yourself or encounter any difficulties during the process, it's always best to consult with a professional mechanic to ensure the belt is correctly installed and tensioned.
