How to Replace the AC Belt on a 2000 Chevy Silverado

The air conditioner belt on the 2000 Chevy Silverado engine is a single belt that also controls the alternator, power steering pump, water pump and the vacuum pump. The belt is designed to control each accessory at the same time by routing around each accessory pulley. The turning of the crankshaft when the engine is running drives the belt around each accessory pulley. This process enables each accessory to perform its required function. If the belt becomes cracked or frayed, the belt should be removed and replaced as soon as possible.

• 1

  Locate the belt routing diagram on the top left side of the fan shroud. Follow the routing path of this diagram to install the new belt around each accessory.

• 2

  Locate the spring-loaded belt tensioner on the front left side of the engine. Use the bolt that connects the tensioner pulley to the tensioner arm to relieve the tension from the belt.

• 3

  Place the breaker bar and a socket onto the tensioner pulley bolt. Turn the breaker bar toward the left side of the engine. Pull the belt out from under the tensioner pulley, and allow the breaker bar to slowly retract until it stops.

• 4

  Pull the belt out from around all the accessory pulleys. Rotate each fan blade to the top of the engine, and slide the belt around each fan blade. Slide the belt out of the engine compartment. Match the used belt to the new belt to ensure the new belt has the same width and length as the used belt.

• 5

  Slide the new belt around each fan blade and around the crankshaft pulley to start the belt routing process. Route the new belt around each of the other accessories exactly as shown in the routing diagram.

• 6

  Turn the tensioner device counterclockwise with the breaker bar. Slide the new belt under the tensioner pulley. Allow the breaker to retract slowly until the belt is tight around the tensioner pulley. Remove the breaker bar and socket.

• 7

  Start the engine of the 2000 Chevy Silverado, and run it for about 10 seconds so the belt becomes completely seated around each pulley. Turn the engine off.