Belt Drive

[-Jack-]

I've got a '97 Mounty 5.0L V8:

I am kinda new to this. Can someone please give me a little knowledge on how the tensioner for the belt drive works? How would I go about replacing the belt and ensuring proper tension?

 

[Turdle]

There should be a diagram on the radiator support

tensioner takes a 16mm socket

 

[-Jack-]

I've got a diagram, I guess what I am asking is if there is a science to adjusting the tensioner to the proper tension or if you just tighten until the belt is stiff?

 

[Turdle]

It is spring loaded at the arm.
Self adjusting

 

[-Jack-]

Excellent, thanks.

 

[Turdle]

If I remember correctly, you apply a clockwise torque to the nut in the center of the tensioner idler wheel itself, which swings the arm up while you slide the belt off alternator pulley.
Save the old one for an emergency-stash it in the jack cubbyhole.
And remember to keep a ratchet and that size socket( among others of course) in your mobile tool kit.

Good luck