Novice; have an '89 S10 , needs alternator; I see the three bolts on the old one, but don't see how to release tension on the whole belt system.
( Battery show 12.1 volts across the terminals while truck is off, and a bit less with the truck stated; even less with the headlights on ; I cleaned all terminals - alternator is making a high whine , so I assume we can safely say I need a new one ?) Again, how to give myself some slack on the pulley system ?
You need to release the tension by using a wrench and rotating the tensioner away from the engine. The tensioner will be easy to find. It is a large cast spring loaded part with a flat idler on it that pushes on the back of the belt.
I would suggest you get a book as well. For basic info you could also visit
Yes - it was cake - If only the @!#$$@'s at Autozone had sold me the right alternator. I used, in fact, a small bit of wood as a lever to move the whole tensioner back , tied off with some rope- very easy, very obvious - many thanks -
Yeah, and if only you'd gone to a real parts store....
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