and first disconnect the ground strap :)

just so everyone knows, I sent Alex a scan of the bentley page on it (which
had a lot of reference to parts that aren't on my engine, btw) and pictures
of how it looks on mine.  I didn't want to put the scan up publicly as it's
copyrighted and all.  (Scott's description below is, I'm sure, what was
really needed--I'm just letting people know what else has been sent his way
to prevent any needless duplication of effort.)

mike

On Sun, Dec 27, 2009 at 8:40 PM, Scott Daniel - Turbovans <
scottdaniel@turbovans.com> wrote:

> no one answered yet, so I will.
> if it is the alternator belt, you need to get the power steering belt out
> of
> the way first.
> On the power steering pump, there's a 17 mm nut at the pivot on the bottom
> -
> loosen that.
> next, loosen a 13 mm bolt or nut so the PS pump will tilt to the left, then
> remove that belt. ( mark or note which way it's on there, so you can put it
> back on going the same direction. )
>
> there are three 13 mm nuts/bolts to loosen on the alternator.
> one at the bottom of the alternator where it pivots - loosen that.
> Loosen the main tension bolt on the tensioner bracket near the top of the
> alternator.
> loosen the nut at the base of the tensioner bracket so it can move easily.
> tilt the alternator to the left, and wiggle your new belt on - being
> careful
> to get it fully in the crankshaft pulley grooves.
> Tension up that belt nicely using the top tension bracket bolt.
> then tighten the two other 13 mm fasteners on the alternator.
> Fire the engine off at the point to make sure the belt is where it belongs,
>  turn off the engine, and recheck alternator belt tension.
> *never* touch any belts on a running engine !   - they can rip your fingers
> right off, catch long hair, etc.
>
> then do the same for the power steering belt - install and tension that
> belt, and tighten all fasteners. Fairly high tension on that one.
>
> btw, when the alternator belt is off, spin the alternator by hand, to check
> the bearings for roughness or excessive play.  Should be smooth turning, ,
> with no particular slop or play.
> Have fun. work safely !
>
> Scott
> www.turbovans.com
>
>
> ----- Original Message -----
> From: "Alex Madison" <alexmadison@GMAIL.COM>
> To: <vanagon@GERRY.VANAGON.COM>
> Sent: Sunday, December 27, 2009 3:29 PM
> Subject: how to change alternator belt?
>
>
>   Was out today running errands in my 89 westy when all of a sudden I saw
>> my
>> Battery light and oil Light flashing and a buzzer sound.  I quickly turned
>> off the van and coasted into a parking lot and took a look in the back.
>> One
>> of my belts ( it goes to the right ) I think the alternator belt has
>> broke.
>> I remembered something about this belt also driving the water pump so left
>> the van where it was and called my girlfriend for a ride. Now I 'm back at
>> home searching for instructions and pics how to change the belt as i don't
>> have a bentley. But I do have a new belt.  Any instructions Greatly
>> appreciated
>>
>>  Alex 1989 westfalia GL
>>  Victoria BC
>>
>