csimpson1

Im new to the fixing cars deal. I have been doing minor stuff with the body and engine for awhile, but not too much. I was just wanting to know what the process is to put on a A/C belt. 84 Firebird S/E. V8 5.0 305. Rounds the A/C, P/S Fan and maybe the lower Pulley as well. I feel really dumb, but i dont know what to do. lol. i really want my a/c back!!!

novafirebirdguy

It's sorta complicated to explain but fairly easy to do. First off make sure you know how the belt is routed, take a picture if you have to. Your AC compressor is going to pivot to allow you to get the belt off. There should 2 (maybe 3) bolts on the compressor, the compressor pivots on one and the other(s) hold it in place. Loosen (do not remove) all the bolts.

Push the compressor at the top toward the center of the engine and it should move letting you slip the belt off. If not look for a 1/2 square for a half inch ratchet and use that to loosen it, if it still won't budge then you didn't loosen all the bolts.

Take the belt off, you'll probably have to slip it around the fan. Make sure your new belt is close to the same length as the old, the old will probably be slightly longer due to stretching.

Now, slip the belt around all the pulleys the old was on, slip it on the ac last. Using the 1/2" ratchet square pull the compressor away from the engine to tighten the belt. For about a 10" gap between pulleys the belt should deflect approx 1/4." While holding the compressor tight tighten one of the bolts to lock it in place. Then the rest. Start your beast and make sure the AC works. If the belt is squeaking then it's too loose, make sure you check with ac on and off. It's a good idea to check the tension again after you let the engine run for a few minutes.
BTW where are you located. I could help you if your close to Des Moines
Alex

csimpson1

First, from Terre Haute, Indiana. Not too far from IL. Umm, it has two belts going around the fan. do i have to take those off too?

novafirebirdguy

If the ac belt is the inner belt (closer to the engine) than you'd have to take the other one off. If you do it's just like taking the AC belt off, only it's the alternator. Next time you go to the parts store or whatever see if they have a haynes or chilton manual for 82-92 firebirds. They tell you how to do almost everything on these cars, although my haynes manual has lied to me a few times.
Alex

csimpson1

Thanks so much. I am very thankful for this site. i have learned alot and figured out alot, but now that i can post stuff, its been even more helpful.