How to read a 2000 ford taurus belt diagram (sharing the key details).

How to read a 2000 ford taurus belt diagram (sharing the key details).

Interpreting the serpentine belt routing diagram for a 2000 Ford Taurus (typically equipped with the 3.0L Vulcan or Duratec V6) requires locating the diagram and understanding its symbols.

Locating the Diagram

The most common locations are:

  • A decal (sticker) on the underside of the hood, often near the latch area or on a hood brace.
  • A decal on the top of the radiator fan shroud.
  • Occasionally molded directly onto a plastic cover near the front of the engine.

Key Components Identified

  • Crankshaft Pulley (CRK): The primary drive pulley, usually the largest and lowest pulley.
  • Automatic Belt Tensioner: Typically spring-loaded. Its pulley applies constant tension. Marked with an arrow indicating the direction to release tension.
  • Accessory Pulleys:
    • Alternator (ALT)
    • Power Steering Pump (PS)
    • Air Conditioning Compressor (AC)
    • Idler Pulleys (ID): Smooth pulleys guiding the belt; their count varies by engine configuration.
    • Water Pump Pulley (WP): Driven directly by the belt.

Reading the Diagram

  • Follow the Routing Path: Trace the illustrated belt path sequentially from the crankshaft pulley.
  • Identify Symbols: Each pulley will be labeled or represented by a clear schematic symbol matching its shape and position relative to others.
  • Belt Contact: Solid lines represent the grooved (ribbed) side contacting grooved accessory pulleys. Dashed lines represent the smooth backside contacting smooth idlers or the tensioner.
  • Belt Direction (Crucial): Arrows on the diagram indicate the belt's rotational direction around the pulleys. Installing it backwards will cause immediate failure.

Releasing Tension & Routing

  • Rotate the automatic tensioner pulley in the direction indicated by the arrow on its body (usually clockwise or counter-clockwise towards the engine) using a suitable socket/wrench on the square drive hole provided. This compresses the spring, releasing tension.
  • Route the new belt exactly as shown, ensuring the ribs seat properly into all grooves. Double-check the path before releasing the tensioner slowly.

Critical Checks

  • Alignment: After releasing tension, visually confirm the belt sits perfectly centered on all pulleys with no ribs hanging off edges.
  • Tensioner Position: The tensioner arm should settle in the normal operating range (between the marks if visible) – not bottomed out.
  • Condition: Inspect all pulleys for damage, roughness, or misalignment. Inspect the tensioner pulley bearing for wobble or noise. Replace faulty pulleys or the tensioner assembly if needed.