I have a 1996 850 and recently replaced the alternator, and PS pump. When i try to put the new serpentine belt on i have alot of slack. I am pretty sure that i have it routed correctly. The belt tensioner moves, so i dont think thats the problem. I brought the belt to the parts delaer and he said it was the right belt. Can i have installed something improperly? All the bolts went back everything was tight.. please help

 

Which way did you run the belt?
There is 2 ways it can go depending on the size of the belt.
It goes around the crank up and around the A/C then up over the alt and under the idler then up over the power steering then under tensioner.
The other way it can go is all the same up to the Idler and alt. Runs over the idler then the alt up to the steering pump.

 

I believe the first way you described and it was extremly loose. I followed the directions that were in the owners manual and Hayes manual.The belt tensioner puts pressure on the belt when it moves toward the front of the car, correct? I was thinking that it may be the tensioner?

 

Let me see if I can find a picture to show you both ways the belt will run.

 

See in the pic my belt goes from the A/C compressor to the alt. Instead go from the A/C comp. to the idler pulley then to the Alt and then up to the power steering pump.

 

Im gonna try the new way as u described. i tried the way you have it in the picture

 

let me know how youmake out.

 

thanks for your help. now i cant wait to get out of work and see if it works!!

 

Hopefully it will go smooth.
Another thing a new belt might be a little tight going on. Some people will slide it on the idler last to make it easier.
Others might use a pair of pliers to turn the power steering pulley to walk it on.

 

I tried the way u showed me with the 2 different size belts that i got from advanced auto and it was still too loose. So i deciced to get a belt from volvo. The two belts i got from advance auto were the wrong size!!! volvo also confirmed to me that they rerouted the belt like you had told me. Everything went smooth and shes running awesome.. i love this car already!!! Thanks for your help.

 

Glad you got it all done.
Congrats [sm=happybounce.gif]

 

advanced auto...what else do u expect..lol

 

I should have know better, I have a 96 VW VR6 Corrado and would never get any parts for that car from them..