Serpentine Belt ’97 E320
 

I went and bought a new belt to replace my 7 year old belt and found that I can't figure out how to release the tension. My last vehicle had a bolt on the alternator that slid back and forth, can't find a similar device on this vehicle. All the other maintenance I have done has been so easy that I know thiscar is staring me in the face saying "you fool, get the wrench and turn me" but I don't want to break anything. Anybody else know where the tension device is (pully??) and helpful tips on replacing this belt before I breakdown?</P>


Thanks</P>

Serpentine Belt ’97 E320
 

You may want to remove the radiator fan shroud before you release the tension on the belt tensioner. It's just a few clips and saves lots of skin on your knuckles. The tensioner is located near the power steering pulley and water pump pulley. If I remember correctly it has a3/8" drive square hole in it where you can install a ratchet or small breaker bar (3/8") to release the tension. Piece of cake to do, the hard part is putting the new one on the way it should be. Can be confusing to do so make sure you pencil out the exact routing of the belt before you remove it...</P>