Tools and Materials Needed:
- Replacement Serpentine Belt (refer to your vehicle's owner's manual for the correct part number)
- Ratchet
- Socket Set
- Breaker Bar (if necessary)
Steps:
1. Locate the Serpentine Belt:
- Open the hood of your Chrysler 5th Avenue and locate the serpentine belt. It is usually a long, black belt that runs around several pulleys on the front of the engine.
2. Release the Tensioner:
- The serpentine belt is tensioned by a spring-loaded tensioner. Find the tensioner pulley, which is usually located near the top of the engine.
- Insert the appropriate size socket into the square hole on the tensioner pulley.
- Use the ratchet to turn the tensioner pulley clockwise, releasing the tension on the serpentine belt. This may require some force, so you might need to use a breaker bar for added leverage.
3. Remove the Old Belt:
- Once the tension is released, you can remove the old serpentine belt by slipping it off the pulleys. Start from one end and work your way around, removing the belt from each pulley.
4. Install the New Belt:
- Take the new serpentine belt and align it with the pulleys, ensuring that it follows the same routing as the old belt.
- Start from the same end where you removed the old belt and push the new belt onto the pulleys. Make sure the belt is seated properly in each pulley groove.
5. Reapply Tension:
- Once the new belt is in place, use the ratchet and socket to turn the tensioner pulley counterclockwise, applying tension to the belt.
- Tighten the belt until it has the recommended tension, which you can find in your vehicle's owner's manual.
6. Check the Belt Alignment:
- Ensure the serpentine belt is correctly aligned on all the pulleys. If necessary, make slight adjustments to ensure proper alignment.
7. Test the Belt:
- Start the engine and let it run for a few minutes. Listen for any unusual noises or vibrations that might indicate an incorrectly installed belt.
8. Double-Check the Tension:
- After running the engine, recheck the serpentine belt tension to ensure it's still at the recommended level.
9. Close the Hood:
- Once you're satisfied that the serpentine belt is properly installed and tensioned, close the hood of your Chrysler 5th Avenue.
10. Test Drive:
- Take the car for a short test drive. If there are no unusual noises or vibrations, the serpentine belt has been successfully replaced.
Remember to always refer to your vehicle's owner's manual for specific instructions and torque specifications for your model. If you're not confident in performing this task, it's best to consult with a qualified mechanic for assistance.
