1. Gather the Necessary Tools and Parts:
- Replacement accessory drive belt (refer to your vehicle's owner's manual for the correct size and type)
- Socket set
- Wrench set
- A breaker bar or a long-handled wrench (optional)
2. Locate the Accessory Drive Belt:
- Open the hood of your Civic and locate the accessory drive belt. It is usually located on the front of the engine, running around the alternator, power steering pump, and air conditioning compressor.
3. Loosen the Belt Tensioner:
- There is a tensioner that maintains the proper tension on the belt. On the 1991 Honda Civic, it's an automatic tensioner. To release the tension, you need to:
- Locate the tensioner. It's usually a metallic part with a spring mechanism.
- Insert a socket wrench or a breaker bar into the tensioner's pulley.
- Turn the socket wrench or breaker bar counterclockwise to release the tension on the belt.
- Once the belt is loose, you can remove it by slipping it off the pulleys.
4. Install the New Belt:
- Take the new accessory drive belt and loop it around the pulleys, ensuring that it follows the same path as the old belt.
- Make sure that the belt is properly seated in all the grooves of the pulleys.
5. Re-tension the Belt:
- Use the socket wrench or breaker bar to turn the tensioner pulley clockwise to re-tension the belt.
- Refer to your vehicle's owner's manual for the recommended tension specification for the belt.
- Make sure that the belt has the correct amount of tension to prevent slipping or stretching.
6. Double-Check the Belt:
- Ensure that the belt is properly aligned on all the pulleys and that it has the correct amount of tension.
7. Start the Engine and Test:
- Start the engine and let it run for a few minutes.
- Listen for any unusual noises or vibrations coming from the belt area.
- Turn the steering wheel to the left and right, and observe if the belt moves smoothly without slipping.
- If everything seems normal, turn off the engine and close the hood.
By following these steps, you should successfully replace the accessory drive belt on your 1991 Honda Civic 4-door. Remember, if you're not comfortable performing this task or encounter any difficulties, it's always best to consult a qualified mechanic for assistance.
