How to Adjust a Dodge Caravan Serpentine Belt

The Dodge Caravan uses a serpentine belt pulley tensioner to keep constant tension on the serpentine belt. However, over time, the belt stretches to a point where the tensioner no longer has enough travel to keep the belt tightened. If the serpentine belt shows no signs of dry rotting or cracking, you can get a little more life out of the belt by adjusting the mounting location of the alternator.

Things You'll Need

• Socket set
• Crow bar

Instructions

1. Loosen the mounting bolt and the pivot bolt on the alternator. This loosens the alternator on the alternator bracket and allows you to pivot the alternator upward.

2. Place a crow bar between the alternator casing and the alternator mounting bracket.

3. Push down on the crow bar to push up the alternator, which tightens the serpentine belt. To reintroduce tension on the tensioner pulley, you should pivot the alternator up approximately one inch.

4. Hold the crow bar in place while you tighten the alternator mounting bolt and the pivot bolt with the socket and ratchet.

References

• "Repair Manual: 2003-2007 Dodge Caravan, Chrysler Voyager, Chrysler Town & Country by Haynes"; John Wegmann, John H. Haynes; 2010