I have a '95 626 and I love it, but just yesterday the alternator belt decided to fall off. I'm wondering if replacing it is something I can do, or should I go to a shop. I'm a broke young guy trying to pay for college, and a shop just isn't in the budget. If this is an easy process I'd love to hear from someone who knows. Also if this is a process i can do on my own, what do I need to do it right (tools, etc.)

 

Should be pretty easy. There will be a pulley with a spring inside it (keeps tension on the belt) called the idler pulley. You should be able to put a wrench on this pulley to rotate it out of the way, then snake the new belt over the various pullies. Once the routing is correct, you should be able to release the idler pulley and the belt will be tight.

I'd suggest finding a Haynes or Chilton's manual (you can probably find the book/page you need at the local library and photocopy it.)

This is a great project for the beginner as it only requires a couple of tools.

 

invite a friend over....it'll make the job way easier....cuz then some one can loosen the idler pulley, while the other removes the belt, then one person can hold the alternator, while teh other tightens up the bolts....etc, etc

P.S...im 18, and i've done a bunch of em in auto class....no sweat!! it's just a b!tch tho cuz our teacher has to check EVERYTHING before why do ANYTHING!!! literally....like, come on, i know what im doing!! Im doing an apprenticeship in feb. for Auto Mechanics

 

Thanks for the advice. I'll look into it. I apreciate your help in this matter.