Cadillac Repair: Replace Alternator 1989 Cadillac Seville, negative battery cable, cadillac seville

Question
I need to replace the alternator on a 1989 Cadillac Seville.

As a first step, I don't know how to release the tension in the belt so that I can remove alternator.  Can you explain?

And I don't know specifics of resetting the belt tension.

Any other tips appreciated.

Thank you.

Answer
Hi Jonathan, The tensioner pulley assembly is on top to the left of the power steering pump. All you need is a 1/2" breaker bar to put in the square and then lift up. You can use a ratchet but caddy says if not carefull you can break off the square hole and then the tensioner will need to be replaced. It is a spring loaded devise that is supposed to keep the correct tension on the belt so after you reinstall the belt and release the pulley the spring inside the tensioner does the rest. Remember to remove the negative battery cable from the battery before unhooking the alternator or you can damage the electrical system if you ground out the 10mm nut when removeing or tightening it. Once the belt is off the alternator is pretty easy to replace. Hope that helps. Bill