How to Remove the Tensioner Pully and Assembly on a 1999 Ford Explorer

The 1999 Ford Explorer features a serpentine drive belt that powers accessories, such as the air condition compressor, alternator and power steering pump. The system uses a tensioner pulley to keep the belt tight, as it moves from one accessory to another. The tensioner pulley works via spring compression, and, over time, the spring may become weak. If the drive belt becomes loose, some of the accessories may not work properly. The tensioner pulley should be replaced, if it is too weak to keep the belt tight.

• 1

  Insert a socket wrench into the belt tensioner, and rotate, counterclockwise, to release the drive belt tension. Move the belt off the tensioner pulley with your free hand.

• 2

  Loosen the center bolt on the tensioner pulley, using a socket wrench. Take note of the direction the tensioner is currently installed. Remove the bolt and the pulley from the work area.

• 3

  Install the new tensioner pulley, and hand thread the bolt, until it is tight. The tensioner assembly must face the same direction as the original. Tighten the bolt, using a socket wrench.

• 4

  Rotate the tensioner pulley, counterclockwise, using a socket wrench, and slip the belt over the pulley. Slowly release the tensioner, until the belt is tight.

• 5

  The drive belt must be properly seated on all the belt accessories.