A/C Fan Belt... How to Remove?

[Kaveman]

Hey All,
New to this model BMW. 96 318ti. I wanted to change the fan belts. Figured out how to remove the Alt belt(easy one, nice spring load), but can't figure out how to remove the tension on the idler for the A/C belt? Any help is appreciated... :D
TIA
Sean

[J!m]

I'm not 100% sure, so if someone knows better, let us know....

I think there is a 'shock-absorber' style tensioner, like the M3, for the A/C belt. It's an absolute BITCH to compress that shock on the tensioner assembly, and if you let it go for a split-second, it flies back to original position...

If this is what you have, then you need to remove the black 'hub-cap' from the tensioner wheel, and install a socket (16mm maybe) with a LONG handle ratchet or breaker-bar on the bolt under the cap (this is the wheel mounting bolt). 'Tighten' the bolt, and the assembly will rotate, compressing the shock. The belt tension will be reduced. Then you can sneak the belt off.

Just don't let it go! It goes back to 'tension' mode very quickly, though it compresses very slowly. Watch your fingers!

[Travis]

Kaveman:

Gotta second Jim, it's a real PITA. The hex hole in the pulley that Jim is talking about is 10 or 12mm, I think. Autozone sells a set with the right size. Alternatively, you can cut 20mm or so off of an ordinary allen wrench and stick it into a socket (same goes for differential oil plug). The easiest way to change the belt is to cut the old one off and tension the pulley only when putting the new one on. If you don't have a 24" breaker bar, put this job off until you have one. It's a good 250 Nm.

Travis

[paul-g]

I can get the a/c belt off fine, but it's not obvious that the alt fan belt is spring loaded. I have '95 318ti. Is it different from '96? Do i need to swivel the alt like the manual states?

Thanks,
Paul