Nissan Repair: serpentine belt, 97 Sentra gxe 1.6, center bolt, serpentine belt


Question
Hi Von,
I need to replace the serpentine belt on my 97 Sentra.  The adjuster is in a nearly inaccessable place.  It is a metal pin, with a square end.  It sits at a 45 degree angle, sloping downward.  I can barely get fingers on it, can't turn it.  Stumped as to what tool might work to turn it.

I put an alternator on it year and a half ago, didn't replace the belt.  It was summertime then, and I just turned it by hand, but it was slow going.  I really hope that you'll have a better answer for me, because it's really cold outside now!  

Thanks so much, Lisa D.

Answer
Use a long extension and get to it from the bottom of the car.  Be sure to use jack stands.  To loosen the pulley you simply loosen the center bolt.  Once the adjuster bolt is loose you take the belt off and replace it.  Then tighten the threaded shaft until the belt it tight and then tighten the center bolt.