I am going to replace the serpentine belt this weekend. The 124 CD says to remove the radiator shroud and fan. I have the "special" alan socket to remove the fan, so I think I am ready. Being a lazy mechanic, I question the need to remove these two components. Looking at the installation it looks like if I start by putting the belt over the alternator and fan pulley, it will go on fine.

Any comments, warnings, words of wisdom, shortcuts, etc?


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Deezel
87 300TDT
150,000 miles

Deezel, I have tried to do this w/o removing the fan or shroud. Take my advice, remove them. Unless of course, you like a challenge. You can spend a ton of time trying to get the belt around all of the pulleys and such. With the fan and shroud out (not a very big job), it's a whole lot easier. Tips: Do the shroud first, hang it over the fan, then remove the fan and shroud. The tensioner should be backed off before you do anything. Remember to realign the tensioner adjustment pointer after the new belt is in place. I'm not sure on the diesel, but I believe the belt should go around the tensioner pully first, then crankshaft, alternator, idler, A/C if applicable, PS pump and water pump. Be careful, it is possible to put the belt on incorrectly. I'll try to get the order and the info on setting the tensioner. (got to look it up).

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Jeff L
1987 300e
1989 300e
1987 BMW 325

Many thanx on the reply. It looked tight, but doable, but I will heed your words of wisdom. I have the CD which gives all the routings for variuos years and options. I'm not very good at reading and writing, but I can follow a pitcher (sic). Did not see anything about a pointer on the tensioner, this engine appears to have a "screen door spring" which has a lever to load and unload it. When you remove the bolt (holding the lever with a MB Pry Bar - Home Depot 3/8" black pipe) you can ease off the sprong, when assembling, pry it back into position and insert the bolt!

Righty tightie, lefty loosey!

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Deezel
87 300TDT
150,000 miles

I replaced the belt without removing the fan on a 603 engine. It is not that hard (30 minute ?) but you have to move the belt and tensioner around to try to put the belt in place. You may need to go under the car to slip the belt thru tight spaces. The MB tire iron bar is just the right size to insert into the lever for loading/unloading the tension. There is no need to go to Home Depot for the tool.

David

Take the above advise, the only time I take off the fan is when I am doing a tensioner as well. (which is most of the time because they will start riding off center...look closely at this)

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Benzmac:
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