Hey guys. I am replacing my alternator in my 1990 fc and ran into trouble trying to get the belt off withought damaging it or removing the pully. I have seen a few other threads like this one, but the only solution I am able to find is that there is apparently supposed to be a second tensioner under the air pump. My problem is that I don't have an air pump pully setup in my car and see no other way of removing the alternator. Really hoping someome here knows how to tackle this. Added pic of the bay for reference.

 

Keeler,

First make sure you have no problems removing the AC & PS belts. I also want to clarify that there is no tensioner (pulley) under the air pump. Normally, the air pump is attached like the alternator and pivots from one of two mounting bolts. Therefore, the air pump pulley serves as the tensioner pulley. You may have to unbolt the alternator at the adjustment bolt to get more clearance from its pulley. If that doesn't work then remove the pivot bolt and manipulate the alternator around to get the proper clearance you need.

BTW, were you running only 1 alternator belt for that 2-belt setup?

Cheers,
George

 

Hey. I already had the adjustment bolt as well as the pivot bolt removed when I took the picture, but still couldn't get enough slack. Ended up finding a service manual online which was really helpful. Ended up just having to remove the adjustment arm and sorta pry the alternator off the pivot point as it was stuck. Thanks for the suggestions and such though. ☺☺

 

first get your strut bar out've your way to make your life easier, 2nd, you should be able to "walk" the belt into the front groves on your alternator, water pump, and crank then slip it off. If not, completely unhook your alternator where its loose and wiggle it past the belt

the FCs alternator is about the EASIEST alternator to change on any vehicle.........except modular ford 4.6/5.4s, they are a little easier