NEED help with replacing Belt tensioner in my 1987 GMC S15

Kfisher88 · February 10, 2014

Hello, my name is Kyle. I am new to GM-Trucks.com and am just starting to really get into do it yourself projects. I will be taking my 1987 GMC S15 pickup down to florida next week for the Daytona 500 from New Jersey. But first I need to replace the belt tensioner. I understand the part of taking it off and putting the new one on but in videos I keep watching them keep mentioning something about the torque when I tighten the new tensioner.

When tightening it I don't just tighten it with a socket? I need a torque wrench? Any help or tips you guys or girls can provide me with for this project would be greatly apprciated.

Thanks!!!

txab · February 10, 2014

You don't necessarily need a torque wrench to change your idler. A ratchet w/socket or box wrench will do it. Using the torque method just assures you don't over or under tighten the bolts. Have you done much wrenching before?

Welcome to the site, btw

Edited February 10, 2014 by txab

Kfisher88 · February 10, 2014

Thank you glad to be here lol. I have expierence with a ratchet and wrenches. Not with a torque wrench but I don't want to over do it and break something else. That's why I was leaning towards the torque wrench

You don't necessarily need a torque wrench to change your idler. A ratchet w/socket or box wrench will do it. Using the torque method just assures you don't over or under tighten the bolts. Have you done much wrenching before?

Welcome to the site, btw

Edited February 10, 2014 by txab
duplication

txab · February 10, 2014

Well if you can get your hands on torque wrench go for it, especially if it makes you feel more comfortable.

http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Torque_wrench

Edited February 10, 2014 by txab

Kfisher88 · February 10, 2014

Thank I appreciate it. But I have one more question lol. How do I know what to set the torque to? I've looked in my manual and can't find anything in there about torque beside with tire lugs.