Changing Belts ???

[PitbullRescuer]

I feel stupid even asking this but do you really have to move the power steering pump and alternator to change the belts on the 3rd Gens? I see a tensioner down low on the AC belt and I see what looks like a slide for the power steering pump, didn't take a good enough look at the alternator.

Am I right or is there an easier way?

 

[Stick Figure]

the 5VZFE is set up like an older vehicle, so yes it has 3 belts, and they are all tensioned separately, so yes you have to use the alt and PS pump to tension their respective belts.

 

[PitbullRescuer]

Thought so but wanted to ask before I did that. Does the alternator also have a slotted bolt (guessing the bottom one) to release the tension and then retension it?

 

[awdjunkies]

Thought so but wanted to ask before I did that. Does the alternator also have a slotted bolt (guessing the bottom one) to release the tension and then retension it?

Here's a good write-up with pics and a vid. :hatsoff: How to: Change Drive Belts 3.4 L 5VZ-FE - YotaTech Forums

 

[PitbullRescuer]

^Thanks man. I figured that was the procedure but wanted to make sure I wasn't overlooking something obvious. Mine are squeeling like hell, I'm going to change them out today and be done with it.

 

[awdjunkies]

^Thanks man. I figured that was the procedure but wanted to make sure I wasn't overlooking something obvious. Mine are squeeling like hell, I'm going to change them out today and be done with it.

No problem buddy, I love write-ups with pictures.. I guess my mind is getting too old, and reverting back to my adolescent years hahaha

 

[theizzardking]

^Thanks man. I figured that was the procedure but wanted to make sure I wasn't overlooking something obvious. Mine are squeeling like hell, I'm going to change them out today and be done with it.

haha, small world, i just tightened all of mine yesterday, that PS tentioner is B.S. man...i tell you B.S.......i really need a set of those ratcheting crescent wrenches.....i found this whole thing annoying...good luck man

 

[Stick Figure]

Speaking of belts, I just came across the set of 3 "goodyear gatorbacks" that i put on my 4runner when i first bought it. They are like new and free to a local that wants to pick them up. I had to change them out when i got rid of the whole fan idler pulley thing.

 

[PitbullRescuer]

Just finished. What a pain in the *ss that was. That power steering pump tensioner is a nightmare to get to. I had a real hard time getting the idler back on the AC belt too. Took me about 2 hours to finish.

 

[awdjunkies]

Congrats, I know sometimes working on your car is a real PITA!! But all worth it in the end :bigok:

 

[theizzardking]

Just finished. What a pain in the *ss that was. That power steering pump tensioner is a nightmare to get to. I had a real hard time getting the idler back on the AC belt too. Took me about 2 hours to finish.

yep but done and done, and now you wont get all of those strange looks from people every-time you start your car up...haha, i know my 4runner looks to good to be making sounds like that!

 

[PitbullRescuer]

now you wont get all of those strange looks from people every-time you start your car up...haha

Funny you should say that. I went to leave a clients house the other night, started it up and it was screaming. Here I am pulling out of a $1.5M house and squealing all the way down the street. LOL.

 

[PitbullRescuer]

So I changed them out. Still getting a little squealing, which I think is probably coming from the power steering belt as it seems to occur while turning slowly. (ie, pulling out of a parking spot). Any ideas? I'm guessing either too much or too little tension on the belt.

 

[LittleCaesar]

Make sure it is not the fan bracket pulley. Also check the drive pulleys (clean them with a brass brush). Third, have you ever changed the PS fluid? It could be the pump.

With the PS pump belt, the deflection for a new belt should be about 1/4". The ALT about 3/8". The AC, 1/2".

 

[PitbullRescuer]

I was afraid it might be the pump. I bought it in September, I haven't changed the fluid yet. I'll try changing it and see if it helps. If not I guess I'll be sourcing a pump.

 

[Zachpins34]

Mine is squeaking pretty bad too and the belts are all stiff. I hope that is all it is that needs replacing. Just bought some gates belts and my brother and I are gonna put them on this weekend. Guess its gonna be more difficult than I thought lol

 

[PitbullRescuer]

It actually probably easier with an extra set of hands. At least some of it. Good luck.

 

[Stick Figure]

before you buy a pump, make sure the reservoir is clean and flowing ... I've never had an issue with the 4runner, but I know in other Toyota's I've had, there was a screen at the bottom of the reservoir that could become clogged.

 

[PitbullRescuer]

Will do, thanks for the heads up Stick.

 

[LittleCaesar]

Just follow the write-up, it gives everything you need to complete the job. I will say that before tackling it, you must have a 14mm ratcheting stubby wrench for the side power steering bolt. A 12mm ratcheting flex wrench helps with the ALT adjusting bolt.

When ya get the belts off, spin the fan clutch bracket bearing to make sure it is devoid of noises and spins freely. Also, if the fan clutch is original, it is a good time to replace it.

To flush the PS system, it is pretty easy. There are a few write ups on the Web. If you have a helper, you can start the car while turning the wheels from side to side. The key is to never let the fluid run low.