How to Replace the Alternator Belt in a 1997 Mirage

The 1997 Mitsubishi Mirage comes equipped with three different drive belts that operate the front engine accessories. The first belt controls the power steering pump, the second controls the alternator, and the third controls the air conditioner compressor. All three drive belts control the water pump together. Each belt comes with its own tensioner that keeps the proper amount of tension on the belt while the motor is running. If the belt has any damage, change it immediately.

• 1

  Locate the alternator on the lower left-hand side of the Mirage's engine. The tensioner for the alternator belt is between the alternator and the crankshaft. Position a socket and the breaker bar onto the tensioner pulley bolt head. Turn the tensioner counterclockwise and remove the belt from the tensioner pulley. Release the breaker bar.

• 2

  Remove the alternator belt from the alternator pulley, crankshaft pulley and water pump pulley. Match the old alternator belt to the new alternator belt to ensure the proper size.

• 3

  Route the new belt around the alternator pulley, water pump pulley and crankshaft pulley.

• 4

  Turn the tensioner counterclockwise from the pulley bolt head again. Slide the new belt under the tensioner pulley and release the tensioner. Release the tensioner. Make sure that the belt is securely inside of each pulley.

• 5

  Crank the engine for five to ten seconds to seat the new belt to the inside of each pulley. Turn the engine off.