Snap a long-handled ratchet or a serpentine belt tool into the square 1/2-in.-drive or 3/8-in.-drive opening. Or use a socket on the hex-shaped protruding nut. Slowly rotate the tensioner arm as far as it will turn. Then release the tension. Feel for binding and creaking in both directions. Parts/Supplies Needed: Drive belt, part #90916-02570. 1) Optional: Remove the front engine bay cover if you want a little extra room to work. 2) Use a 10mm socket to loosen the air cleaner inlet hose clamp. 3) Pull the inlet hose off and set it out of the way. Overview: Inspect the belt for cracks on the ribbed side that goes over the water A serpentine belt must be constantly tensioned to prevent it from coming off. The belt can come off if the alignment is not aligned. It is possible that the tensioner is out of alignment and not applying enough tension to the belt. You should have a mechanic check the tensioner and replace it if necessary. If there is a loose idler pulley or an The only pulleys you should be able to turn by hand when the serpentine belt is not in place are: the water pump, alternator, and power steering pump pulleys. The air conditioning compressor has a clutch on it that should spin freely as well but it will not be rotating the internals of the compressor. The serpentine belt "snakes" around several components of the engine, transferring mechanical power to nearly every critical part. Under normal conditions, the belt needs to be replaced every 4 to 6 years. However, those living in areas where the temperature and humidity can vary greatly throughout the year may need to change it more frequently. 1. Grinding or squeaking noise from the belts or tensioner. The most common symptom of a bad or failing drive belt tensioner is noise from the belts or tensioner. If the tensioner is loose the belts may squeak or squeal, especially when the engine is first started. It is also possible for the tensioner pulley or bearing to wear out, in which Pull it tight with the belt on and then tighten the bolts. It would appear that i didnt give it enough umph based on the other posts further down. Just wanted to make sure that was indeed the case. Colorado Jeep Club Member #286. 89 YJ 2.5L. OME 36R's, Bilstein 5100's, Bserk 5/8" shackles, 33x10.5 BFG's on 15x8. 09 KK Sport 4X4. vB6J.