How to Remove and Install the Ford Escort Alternator Belt?
3 Answers
Use a 17mm star socket on the screw head of the tensioner pulley, and first insert the hex wrench into the small hole marked by the yellow circle. With one hand, forcefully press down the star wrench to lift the tensioner pulley, while gently pushing the hex wrench into the hole with the other hand. When you can push the hex wrench further in, it indicates that the tensioner pulley is fully lifted. Release the star wrench, and the tensioner pulley will remain in the lifted position. Now the belt is loose, and you can remove the old belt. When removing or installing, pay attention to the position of the rubber hose—the belt should be removed or installed at an angle in this area.
Last time I replaced the generator belt on my Ford Escort by myself, and the whole process went quite smoothly. First, make sure the car is turned off and cooled down, then disconnect the negative terminal of the car battery to prevent any accidental starts. Next, open the hood and locate the tensioner pulley near the generator, usually positioned at the top of the belt system. Use an appropriate wrench to gently press down on the tensioner and release the tension, allowing the old belt to be easily removed. When installing the new belt, route it along the original path around the pulleys, paying special attention to aligning the grooves and avoiding any crossing or twisting. After installation, use the wrench to adjust the tension to a moderate level—too tight can damage the bearings, while too loose may cause slipping. Test by starting the car and listening for any squeaking sounds. The entire process takes about half an hour and only requires basic wrenches. If you're somewhat handy, you can handle it yourself and save on repair shop costs. Remember to regularly check the belt for wear, especially after high mileage—if cracks appear, it's time to replace it, as this affects the operational stability of other engine components.
I learned a lesson when replacing the alternator belt on my Ford Escort before—I didn’t disconnect the battery and almost caused a short circuit, so the first step is absolutely to disconnect the battery before starting. When locating the tensioner, refer to the user manual or online diagrams—it’s usually on the right side of the engine. Use a tool to press it down and loosen the belt for removal. When installing the new belt, ensure the routing is correct to avoid reversing it, which can accelerate wear or even cause breakage. Adjusting the tension is critical—I prefer testing by pressing the belt with my thumb; if it depresses about 1 cm at the midpoint, it’s good. Belt replacement seems simple but is prone to mistakes, like forgetting gloves and getting cuts from slipping—I’ve been there. Keep a spare belt handy in case other issues arise during the process. For safety, after replacement, drive a short distance to check for unusual noises before normal use.
