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1998 Volvo V70 XC

Question: How to relieve tension on accessory belt to remove/replace alternator

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carignanja, 2.4L 5 Cylinder Turbo, Mashpee, MA, November 13, 2011, 10:42
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I have a bad alternator on my '99 V70XC. I want to swap out the alternator, in order to accomplish this I have to relieve the tension on the accessory belt before removing old alternator. What is the procedure to follow before attempting the swap. I've seen a YouTube video which seems to indicate that turning the tensioner counter to it's direction of rotation will relieve the tension, is this correct, if not, which direction works with a Volvo, if at all?

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  • Answer #1

    patrick mannion from Greg Solow's Engine Room, November 13, 2011, 10:57
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     Master

    The automatic belt tensioner is under strong spring pressure but you just put a wrench on the nut on the center of the tensioner and rotate it in the direction that will allow the belt to have enough slack in it to remove the belt.

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    carignanja, November 14, 2011, 13:22
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    Thanks, I remembered I have a tool to relieve the tension, my problem now is finding how to remove the alternator, seems as if I have to remove top radiator hose, p/s pump, and/or the lower facia as I don't see an easy way to pull the alternator as it sits.

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  • Answer #2

    HARTS November 14, 2011, 09:52
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     Enthusiast

    Sometimes the tensioner is frozen in place also. Generally, depending on your strength also, you should be able to pull on a longer length of the belt and see the tensioner moving while you pull, if not, you'll need a belt tensioner also. Check the belt condition, while you are at. If the belt has cracks on it, then I would replace it. No reason to put a bad belt back on the car.

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    carignanja, December 11, 2011, 09:28
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    Belt was replaced about 10K back. Now I've done the unforgivable, failed to note the belt configuration, can't find a diagram on the net, nor in the publications that came with the vehicle, know a website that has this info? Thanks, Joe

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