Hi all. I have a 2009 t/c 3.3 engine. I've just heard a squeal that sounds like maybe the belt. I have 127000 miles on in I've had it since 88000 and I know it's not been changed since then the belt looked great when I got it. My question is when I replace the belt should I replace the tensioner at the same time? If so how hard is it to replace it I've never replaced a tensioner before? Thanks David

 

I don't think it is necessary to change the tensioner unless it is bad, but when I changed the serpentine belt on my 2009 Grand Caravan SXT the tensioner pulley had some play, no one had the pulley in stock so I bought the whole tensioner assembly.

Here's how I changed the belt and tensioner:

1- Turn steering wheel all the way to the right.

2- Remove the belt splash shield (two 10mm bolts and two Christmas tree fasteners)

3- Relieve tension from belt. I used a 3/8" drive in the square hole in the tensioner (opposite the pulley), you could use a 15mm wrench on the lug at the bottom of the tensioner instead if you prefer.

4- Remove the belt.

5- Remove the 16mm bolt securing the tensioner. There in not enough room between the tensioner bolt and frame for a ratchet and socket so I used a box wrench to remove the bolt. An offset box wrench might work better.

6- Remove the tensioner from below.

7- Re-Installation tensioner, belt, and splash guard.

Since there is not a diagram under the hood for the belt routing here's a diagram I made:

 

Thanks for the reply. Very helpful. Thanks David