I am a new user so I am sorry if I am posting something that has already been posted.

Anyways, I was driving home the other day and my a/c's compressor pulley froze up and my belt snapped. I was already planning on taking the a/c off for some freed up power so I guess now is the time. So I guess, I want to bypass the a/c but problem is is that I have no clue as to what I need to get and do. I can do the work myself I just need pointed in the right direction. Is there a belt that is shorter that will allow me to just skip that pulley or will I need to get a replacement bracket like on the V8's. Any help on where the best place to get this stuff would be much appreciated also. Thanks in advance.

Just so I can hear something positive, how much HP will bypassing the a/c free up?

Tony Ryno
1992 Camaro RS 25th Anniversary Edition
Cat back dual exhaust, Stock other than that.

 

Not sure how much power it would free up, but just tell the guy at the parts store that you need the belt for your year car and engine with out the A/C. They sell 2 different belts one with the A/C and one with out. You are going to need a decent sized ratchet to more the tensioner out of the way so you can install the new belt . I think you will need a 18MM six point socket. Don't use a 12 point socket it will slip very easy. just slap it on the tensioner and rotate it up. It's under a lot of presure that's why you need a ratchet with a long enough handle. A 1/2 inch drive should do the trick. You could all ways buy the proper tool for doing it, but it's some thing $30 - $50 depending on the brand.

While you are there inspect the condition of the tensioner. If you see any signs of damage replace it. It's better then having it break on you while you are going down the road. I was fourtunet enough that it broke while doing my timing chain and not on the road.

 

So I can completely skip the a/c pulley and do not have to replace it for find a substitute for it and it will work fine, will pep boys or napa or any other common parts store have the belt for a 3.1 without a/c.

Thanks, didm't expect a message this fast, it is much appreciated.

 

I get home late so I tend to respond latter.

Yes any local run of the mill parts store should carry both belts.

 

Opppsss...

Yeah you don't need the idler pulley to replace the a/c pulley. Just get the belt made for your car with out the A/C option and you will be ready to go.

The only snag you may hit is the routing. It will be slightly different due to the fact you no longer have an A/C unit, but some one here who has the same year car and engine with out A/C should be able to help you out. Also a chilton's or Haynes manual should have pictures of both routings.


[EDIT] The sticker under your hood that shows the routing may even show both routings. That would make life much easier!!!

 

Thanks guys, I have replaced the belt and it worked, it took me about 15 minutes to get it on there b/c I had nothing to show me the routing but it finally got fixed. I appreciate you guys help a lot. Especially on the quick posts. You have saved me some money.

Tony Ryno
1992 Camaro RS 25th Anniversary Edition
dual catback exhaust the rest stock

 

No prob. !

How do you like the dual cat back? I was once thinking about doing but was unsure what the effect would be on a V6. I was worried about not having a enough back presure.