Removal and installation drive belts and their tensioners (BMW 7 Series E38)

Drive belts

To remove the A/C compressor drive belt, the alternator drive belt must be removed. If further use of the belt to be removed is intended, mark its direction of movement.

1. Remember the pattern of belt routing on the pulleys.



2. Loosen the union nut (1) of the cooling system fan impeller, being careful not to damage the radiator.



3. Press the drive belt tensioner by the hexagon (1) in the direction of the arrow and remove the drive belt (2).



Removing the A/C compressor drive belt



4. Check the condition of the belt (see chapter Vehicle settings and routine maintenance) and replace it if necessary.

5. Place the drive belt on the pulleys and rollers and make sure it is positioned correctly.

When installing a belt that has already been used, maintain its previous direction of movement.

Tensioners

1. Remove the alternator drive belt.

2. Remove the cooling fan shroud (see chapter Engine cooling, heating, ventilation and air conditioning systems).



3. Remove the cover (1) of the bolt and unscrew it. Unscrew the bolt (2) on the damper.



4. Remove the screw and take the damper out of the holder.

5. Remove the A/C compressor drive belt.



6. Unscrew the bolts (1 and 2) and remove the damper. Unscrew the bolt (3) and remove the tensioner.