How to Replace the Alternator Belt on a 1995 Nissan Truck
The 1995 "Hardbody" truck--the unofficial U.S. name for the 1986-1997 production run of Nissan's small-class pickup--actually has a serpentine-belt system rather than a dedicated belt specifically for its alternator. The serpentine belt on the Hardbody transfers power from the engine's main shaft into other parts of the car--such as the alternator, the compressor and the water pump--through a system of drive wheels. Over time, the serpentine belt will fray and wear out, which will cause it to slip on the drive wheels--producing a truly hideous screeching sound--and eventually will snap if left uncorrected. Replacing the serpentine belt is a fairly simple task, albeit a time-consuming one.
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Instructions
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Open the hood, and locate the serpentine belt. It will be at the front of the engine.
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Make careful note of how the belt is wound through the various pulleys and drive wheels. You must install the new belt in the same fashion--otherwise, it will not function properly and could damage the engine.
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Locate the tensioner pulley. It is the second pulley from the left, near the top of the belt.
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Use a large wrench to pull the tensioner pulley up, releasing tension from the serpentine belt. While the tension is lessened, quickly pull the old serpentine belt off. Let the tensioner pulley down slowly, then remove the belt from the engine compartment.
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Install the new belt to match the way the old belt was installed. Pull the tensioner upward,, then slide the belt under it as the final step, as it will be almost impossible to get the belt around the other drive wheels with the tensioner already applying pressure.
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Tips & Warnings
If you have trouble accessing the serpentine belt, you might have to remove the fan shroud. Do so by removing all the appropriate bolts, then lifting the shroud up and out. Make sure you do not lose the screws as you do this.
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