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2003 Jeep Grand Cherokee Serpentine Belt Replacement

The serpentine belt is a long, winding, snaking...

iFixit Library 1999-2004 Jeep Grand Cherokee Moderate 5 - 10 minutes Guide 119501

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Guide overview

Before you begin

The serpentine belt is a long, winding, snaking belt that keeps your air conditioning, alternator, and power steering pump running smoothly and effectively. You need to check your serpentine belt every 50,000 to 60,000 miles. If you see cracks on the belt or you noticed any one of these (loss of power steering, squealing noise, the engine overheating, or the belt looks bad) that means it's time to replace the old belt for your Jeep Grand Cherokee WJ

Step 1

Repair step

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Take a look at the belt routing diagram under the hood. If you didn't find it you can find a picture on the internet or draw one before beginning.

Step 2

Repair step

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look carefully at how the old belt wraps around the pulleys, so you can replace the new one by practicing and matching the routing.
A/C Pulley
Tensioner
Idler Pulley
Crankshaft Pulley
Power Steering Pump Pulley
Generator Pulley
Water Pump Pulley

Step 3

Repair step

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Now, use your 16 mm wrench to reduce the belt tension and get it off.
Put the socket wrench on the tensioner (Right your belt tensioner, the little square or cave).
Move the wrench clockwise to relieve tension from your belt tensioner.

Step 4

Repair step

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Remove the old belt and make sure to put the new belt that doesn't have any cracks and looks smooth.
Before installing the new belt check the tensioner pulley for wear by using your hand to spin it.

Step 5

Repair step

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Install the new belt by lining up all belt ribs in the pulley grooves and wrap it around.
Start with the A/C Pulley and then wrap it around the tensioner and move on until you end up with the water pump pulley.
When you ready to put the belt back on the alternator, reduce the tension on the belt by using the socket wrench and then slip the belt right over the top.

Step 6

Repair step

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Make sure at the end to tighten the tensioner and start your car to make sure it's work!
To adjust the tension, loosen the nut with a ratchet, so you can tighten the belt as required.