The drive belt on the Mitsubishi Mighty Max operates the power steering pump, alternator, air conditioner compressor and the water pump. The belt is able to operate each of the engine accessories by routing around the accessory pulleys at the same time. As the engine runs, the belt turns each pulley, enabling the accessories to perform their required operations. Over time, the belt will develop damage, such as fraying and cracking. Replace the belt if damage is present anywhere on the belt.
Locate the alternator on the front of the engine. Loosen the top pivot bolt on the top of the alternator with the ratchet and socket.
Locate the adjustment slide bracket on the top of the alternator. Loosen the lock bolt in the center of the slide bracket with the ratchet and socket.
Loosen the adjustment bolt at the end of the alternator bracket by turning it counterclockwise with the ratchet and socket until the belt is loose. Then, pull the belt out of all of the accessory pulleys that it is riding inside of.
Match the old belt to the new belt to ensure the proper size of the new belt. Position the new belt inside of each pulley that the old belt came out of.
Turn the adjustment bolt on the alternator clockwise with the ratchet and socket to tighten the belt. Check the tension of the belt by pushing in on the belt with your hand. The belt should have no more than a 1/2 inch of slack. Adjust the belt as needed.
Tighten the lock bolt in the center of the slide bracket with the ratchet and socket. Tighten the top pivot bolt on the top of the alternator with the ratchet and socket.
Crank the Mitsubishi Mighty Max engine for around 10 seconds to seat the belt inside of each pulley. Turn the engine off and recheck the tension of the belt. Adjust the belt if necessary.
