Joseph Weaver If you’re looking to remove the belt from your 98 Subaru Forester, then you’ve come to the right place. In this article, we’ll walk you through the steps on how to take the belt off your car. Whether you’re doing routine maintenance or replacing a faulty belt, we’ve got you covered.
Key Takeaways
- To remove the belt, you’ll need to loosen the tensioner pulley.
- Use a socket wrench to turn the tensioner pulley and release the belt tension.
- Once the tension is released, slide the belt off the pulleys.
- Make note of the belt routing before removal so you can install the new belt correctly.
Now, let’s get started on how to take the belt off your 98 Subaru Forester.
Step-by-Step Guide
Step 1: Locate the Belt
The belt in question is the serpentine belt, which is responsible for powering multiple components such as the alternator, power steering pump, and air conditioning compressor. In most cars, including the 98 Subaru Forester, the serpentine belt is located on the front of the engine.
Step 2: Locate the Tensioner Pulley
The tensioner pulley is responsible for keeping the belt tight. To remove the belt, you’ll need to loosen the tensioner pulley. The tensioner pulley is typically located near the top of the belt and is easily identifiable by its smooth surface.
Step 3: Loosen the Tensioner Pulley
Use a socket wrench to turn the tensioner pulley and release the belt tension. Turn the wrench in the direction specified by the manufacturer. This will either be clockwise or counterclockwise. Keep turning until the belt slackens.
Step 4: Remove the Belt
Once the tension is released, slide the belt off the pulleys. Make note of the belt routing before removal so you can install the new belt correctly.
Step 5: Install the New Belt
To install the new belt, simply reverse the steps above. Make sure the belt is routed correctly and the tensioner pulley is in the correct position. Once you’ve installed the new belt, turn the engine on and check for proper belt tension and alignment.
Common Questions
How do I know if the belt needs to be replaced?
There are a few signs that your serpentine belt may need to be replaced. Some common signs include squealing noises while driving, visible cracking or fraying on the belt, or if the belt is stretched out and loose. If you notice any of these signs, it’s best to replace the belt as soon as possible to prevent further damage to the engine.
What tools do I need to remove the belt?
To remove the belt, you’ll need a socket wrench and the appropriate socket size for your tensioner pulley. You may also need a belt removal tool if the belt is particularly tight.
How often should I replace the belt?
The recommended replacement interval for the serpentine belt on a 98 Subaru Forester is every 60,000 miles. However, it’s always a good idea to inspect the belt regularly for signs of wear or damage and replace it as needed.
Conclusion
Removing the belt from your 98 Subaru Forester is a simple task that can be done with a few basic tools. Just remember to be careful when working around the engine and always follow the manufacturer’s instructions. By following the steps outlined above, you’ll be able to remove and replace your serpentine belt in no time.
