How to Adjust the Tensioner on a Jeep 4.0 Laredo

The serpentine belt system in a Jeep 4.0L powers every auxiliary component under the hood. The self-tensioner is responsible for keeping the serpentine belt tight so that all the components function properly. The serpentine belt can be damaged if the self-tensioner is too loose or too tight. It is important to adjust the self-tensioner if the serpentine belt is squeaking, frayed, or if the belt is damaged.

Instructions

1

Open the hood and place the gloves on your hands.

2

Locate the self-tensioner along the pulley system. The self-tensioner is held on by four 13 mm bolts, one of which is bolted to a sliding bracket. The bolt on the sliding bracket is used to tighten and loosen the self-tensioner.

3

Attach the 13 mm open-ended wrench to each of the four bolts and loosen them. Slide the bolt that is located on the bracket down and away from the center of the Jeep.

4

Check the belt for damage and replace if necessary. Move the self-tensioner to make the belt tight and eliminate side-to-side play from the belt. The belt should not be able to move more than 0.5 inches when the tensioner is properly applied to a torque specification of 30 foot-pounds.