Hi everybody.I have a 2002 Camry, with the 2.4 4-cylinder engine.I need to replace the drivebelt, but can't figure how its tension is held.Is the tensioner the pulley with torx-bit in the center? If so, is there a special tool to get to it? Wish i had a picture of the tool, or the tensioner, or at least more than the Haynes manual shows. I have about 98K on the car, and really need to change it.Thanks for any help !!!

 

Heres a good link, see section 14 engine mechanical, look at page 14-5. I dont know what you'd use as a substitute for the service tool though but im sure you could jury rig something-

http://oregonstate.edu/~tongt/camry/

 

On page 22 of this link, the belt orientation seems wrong. What do you think?
AC belt seating position

 

There's a 19mm land on the tensioner bracket assembly used to relieve tension from the belt. A 19mm socket (6 point is highly recommended) and a 3/8 ratchet will do the trick. Be sure to note the orientation of the belt before removing it. If the hydraulic tensioner is leaking, replace the entire tensioner asseembly along with the belt.

J

 

Re: the special tool "Serpentine Belt Tool"- since this is what appears to be relatively easy to replace , what have those of you that have replaced the serpentine belt used to do what is called for in the service manual? Is is worth the investment, or is there another option. Also, being that I'm at work here, and I know that there are several sponsers noted, where have most of you purchased your belt? OEM? Aftermarket? Just wondering as there's several options and I'm looking for suggestions as to options for the tool that is used, and additionally the best belt for durability. Thanks in advance.
Surf

 

advanced and autozone do a free loan a tool for serp belt tools.they might even have a tensioner they they will let you look at so you can get oriented.

it is a 19mm bolt looking thing. i use a 19mm wrench with a 15degree offset at work, but a serp belt tool make the leverage alot easier.

the tensioner is hydraulic (acts like a storm door closer on your house), so pull firmly, and wait for the pressure to ease. then pull some more. saves alot of straining.

and use a real toyota belt. they are only 20-30 bucks, and they dont squeal or fray as easily as the aftermanket ones.

 

Hey marc780,

Thanks a ton for the link for those camry manuals, I was in search of then for so long.

Regards,
Amit

 

No special tools needed. I used a 1/2" breaker bar and socket as described above. Manupulating the belt into the places it goes is the hard part. Get a buddy to help you put the new belt on because it is hard to pull tensioner and install belt at the same time. Beer works good to get help. I used a stick with a nail in it - simple and crude but effective to get the belt in place where hands do not fit. Buy a toyota belt, its about $28 and the dealers have them on hand. In fact, my local parts store was more expensive than the Toyota dealer and had to order it.