How to Change the AC Belt for a Replacement in a Trailblazer 5.3

In the 2002 model year the TrailBlazer, which was once just a trim level for the Blazer, became its own model in Chevrolets lineup. In 2003, Chevy introduced a 5.3-liter V-8 engine as an available option. This engine remained the optional V-8 in all trim levels, except the SS, through the 2008 model year. Replacing the air-conditioning compressor belt on the TrailBlazers 5.3-liter engine requires removing the main drive belt, but remains a relatively straightforward task.

Instructions

Removal

1

Loosen the hose clamps securing the air cleaner box outlet tube to the throttle body and mass airflow sensor tube, using a ratchet and socket. Remove the bolt securing the outlet tubes resonator the large plastic box connected to the tube to the top of the engine. Pull the outlet tube from the throttle body and MAF sensor tube, then remove it from the engine compartment.

2

Draw a diagram of the main serpentine belts routing pattern with a pen and paper.

3

Find the main serpentine belt tensioner pulley just above the water pump pulley. Place a breaker bar and socket onto the bolt in the center of the pulley and rotate the breaker bar clockwise to relieve tension on the belt.

4

Pull the main serpentine belt off all of the pulleys. Allow the breaker bar to slowly rotate counterclockwise until the tensioner pulley reaches its resting position.

5

Inspect the main serpentine for any defects, such as: missing rubber chunks, fraying, breakage or heavy glaze. If any defects exist, replace the main serpentine belt with a new one.

6

Insert the breaker bars drive into the square cutout in the air-conditioning belt pulley, located between the air-conditioning compressor and crankshaft pulley. Rotate the breaker bar clockwise to relieve tension on the air-conditioning belt, then pull the belt from the compressor pulley and crankshaft pulley.

7

Allow the tensioner to slowly rotate counterclockwise until it reaches its resting position.

Installation

8

Route the air-conditioning belt around the crankshaft pulley and pull it in the direction of the compressor pulley. Rotate the tensioner clockwise until you can slide the belt over the compressor pulley.

9

Guide the belt over the compressor pulley, then allow the tensioner to rotate counterclockwise until it holds tension on the air-conditioning belt.

10

Install the main serpentine belt around all of the accessory pulleys, except the tensioner pulley, using the diagram you drew as your reference. Rotate the tensioner pulley clockwise, using the breaker bar and socket, then align the serpentine belt with the tensioner pulley.

11

Allow the tensioner pulley to slowly rotate counterclockwise until it holds tension on the belt. Remove the breaker bar and socket.

12

Press the air cleaner outlet tube onto the inlet on the throttle body, then onto the MAF sensor tube's outlet. Tighten the hose clamps to 62 inch-pounds, using an inch-pound torque wrench and socket. Tighten the air cleaner outlet tube resonator bolt to 89 inch-pounds.