Fixing Serpentine Belt Routing 2001 Ford Taurus DIY No Shop Cost

Replace the serpentine belt on your 2001 Ford Taurus (3.8L V6) with common tools. The belt drives the alternator, power steering pump, water pump, and A/C compressor.

Essential Tools & Parts

• New Serpentine Belt: Confirm part K060920 (92.5 inches).
• 3/8" Drive Breaker Bar or Long-Handled Ratchet
• 19mm Wrench or Socket
• Gloves & Safety Glasses

Safety Precautions

DISCONNECT the negative battery terminal. NEVER place hands near rotating pulleys with engine running. Engine surfaces are hot.

Access & Routing Diagram

The spring-loaded automatic tensioner is located on the driver's side. Study the underhood routing diagram. If missing, follow this path:

1. Crank Pulley (large bottom pulley)
2. Clockwise around Idler Pulley (upper right)
3. Down to A/C Compressor (top center)
4. Left to Power Steering Pump (mid-left)
5. Down to Idler Pulley (lower left near tensioner)
6. Over the Tensioner Pulley (driver's side)
7. Up to Alternator (upper left)
8. Back down to Crank Pulley

Note: Water pump is driven directly off the crank pulley side.

Installation Procedure

1. Release tension: Fit the 19mm socket onto the tensioner pulley bolt. Using the breaker bar, pivot the tensioner clockwise (towards the engine/firewall) to release belt slack.
2. Remove old belt: Slip the belt off the easiest pulley (usually alternator) while holding tensioner back. Slowly release the tensioner.
3. Route new belt: Position the new belt over all pulleys except the tensioner pulley, ensuring it sits deep in every groove. Refer to the diagram closely.
4. Apply tension: Rotate the tensioner clockwise again using the breaker bar to gain slack. Slip the belt onto the tensioner pulley. Double-check the routing against the diagram. Slowly release the tensioner to apply tension.
5. Final inspection: Verify the belt is centered and fully seated in all pulley grooves. Ensure no tools are left in the engine bay.

Testing

1. Reconnect the battery negative terminal.
2. Start the engine and immediately check belt operation for 1-2 minutes. Listen for chirps, squeals, or flapping.
3. Turn steering wheel lock-to-lock and turn on A/C to load components. Observe belt tracking and listen for noise.
4. Shut off engine. Recheck belt tension (should deflect ~1/4" midway between farthest pulleys).

Warning: Improper routing causes immediate belt damage or component failure. If noise persists or belt throws, recheck routing.