Remplacez la courroie auxiliaire extensible de votre Ford Focus Mk2 1.6 Zetec

Table of Contents:

1. Introduction
2. Why Replacing Auxiliary Belts is Important
3. Tools and Equipment Needed
4. Step 1: Removing the Wheel and Wheel Arch Liner
5. Step 2: Removing the Old Belt
   • Tools needed for this step
   • Removing the spark plugs
   • Using a screwdriver to remove the belt
6. Step 3: Removing Power Steering Reservoir and Coolant Bottle
   • Removing the power steering reservoir
   • Removing the coolant bottle
7. Step 4: Removing Alternator
8. Step 5: Fitting the New Belt
   • Measuring the new belt
   • Fitting the new belt on the pulleys
   • Aligning the belt properly on the water pump pulley
9. Step 6: Tightening the Alternator and Bolting Up
10. Step 7: Fitting the Air Conditioning Belt
11. Replacing the Power Steering Reservoir, Coolant Bottle, and Wheel Arch Liner
12. Conclusion
13. FAQs

🛠 Why Replacing Auxiliary Belts is Important

Maintaining the auxiliary belts in your vehicle is crucial for its overall performance and longevity. These belts, commonly known as stretch belts, play a vital role in powering various components such as the alternator, power steering pump, and air conditioning compressor.

Over time, auxiliary belts can wear out and become loose, causing them to slip or even break. This can lead to a loss of power for the mentioned components, potentially resulting in engine overheating, battery problems, and a lack of cooling inside the vehicle.

To avoid such issues, it is recommended to regularly inspect and replace the auxiliary belts when necessary. In this article, we will guide you through the step-by-step process of replacing the auxiliary belts on a Focus 1.6 with a 16-valve zetec engine. So let's get started!

🛠 Tools and Equipment Needed

Before we dive into the actual replacement process, let's gather the necessary tools and equipment:

• Socket set (including various sizes)
• Torx 30 screwdriver
• Knife or cutting tool
• Screwdriver
• Lever bar (or any long lever)
• New auxiliary belts

Make sure you have all these tools handy before proceeding with the belt replacement process. Now, let's move on to the step-by-step guide.

🛠 Step 1: Removing the Wheel and Wheel Arch Liner

To access the auxiliary belts, we need to remove the wheel and the wheel arch liner. Follow these steps:

1. Loosen the wheel nuts using a suitable tool.
2. Lift the vehicle and secure it with jack stands.
3. Fully remove the wheel nuts and take off the wheel.
4. Locate the Torx 30 screws underneath the front wing and on the inner part of the wing.
5. Remove these screws to release the wheel arch liner.
6. There may also be screws under the front bumper, so remove them as well.
7. Once all the screws are removed, gently pull the wheel arch liner out.

Now that the wheel arch liner is out of the way, we can proceed to the next step.

🛠 Step 2: Removing the Old Belt

Tools needed for this step:

• Socket set
• Screwdriver

1. Start by removing the spark plugs in the engine. This will make it easier to turn the engine over.
2. Using a screwdriver, insert it between the pulley and the belt.
3. Pull the belt towards you while turning the engine clockwise.
4. As you turn the engine, you will notice that the air conditioning belt comes off easily.
5. Cut the old belts off with a knife or a cutting tool if you prefer.

Now that the old belt is removed, we can proceed to the next step.

🛠 Step 3: Removing Power Steering Reservoir and Coolant Bottle

Removing the power steering reservoir:

1. Locate the 8mm bolt on the top side of the reservoir.
2. Remove the bolt and lift the reservoir out of the bracket.
3. Set the reservoir aside.

Removing the coolant bottle:

1. Slide the coolant bottle out of its clips, located on the side.
2. There are two locators that hold the bottle in place, so gently pull it out.
3. Also, remove the hose that connects to the bottom of the bottle from the plastic clip.

Now that the power steering reservoir and coolant bottle are removed, let's move on to the next step.

🛠 Step 4: Removing Alternator

1. Locate the 15mm bolt at the bottom of the alternator.
2. Using a suitable socket, loosen the bolt by half a turn (no need to fully remove it).
3. There are two additional 15mm nuts and bolts on the top of the alternator, which need to be removed next.
4. Once these three bolts are loose, there is a little E-bit at the end of the stud. Remove this stud completely.

With the alternator ready to be removed, let's proceed to the next step.

🛠 Step 5: Fitting the New Belt

Measuring the new belt:

1. Before fitting the new belt, compare its length to the old belt.
2. Stretch both belts and ensure they are approximately the same length.

Fitting the new belt on the pulleys:

1. Feed the new belt into the engine bay, starting with the crankshaft pulley.
2. Continue routing the belt around the power steering pump pulley, which is located under the alternator.
3. Fit the belt over the alternator pulley, making sure it is properly aligned.
4. Leave the water pump pulley for the last step.

To fit the belt properly on the water pump pulley, we need to follow the next instructions.

Aligning the belt properly on the water pump pulley:

1. Place the new belt around the crankshaft pulley, power steering pump pulley, and alternator pulley.
2. Have the belt positioned halfway across the water pump pulley.
3. Since the belt might be too short to push onto the water pump pulley directly, we will use a lever bar.

Note: Ensure the belt is fully on all the pulley ribs before proceeding further.

🛠 Step 6: Tightening the Alternator and Bolting Up

1. Remember the 15mm bolt at the bottom of the alternator? Tighten it now (not fully, just enough to secure it).
2. By tightening this bolt, we prevent the alternator from tipping over, which facilitates aligning the two holes.
3. Push the alternator back to align it with the two holes.
4. Place the long stud into the hole first. If needed, tap it gently to align it properly.
5. Pull the bar again to help push the alternator further onto the engine.
6. Insert the stud completely and secure it with a nut and bolt.
7. Tighten the stud first, followed by the nut and bolt.

Now, let's proceed to the final step of fitting the air conditioning belt.

🛠 Step 7: Fitting the Air Conditioning Belt

1. Start by placing the belt around the air conditioning pump pulley.
2. From there, position it on the lower half of the crankshaft.
3. Hold the belt with your thumb to prevent it from falling off.
4. Using a socket or spanner, turn the crankshaft clockwise while pushing the belt with your thumb.
5. The belt should go on smoothly, but if it slides one ridge too far on the air conditioning pump, adjust it by pushing the top of the belt toward the engine.

With the air conditioning belt in place, we can move on to the final steps of reassembling.

🛠 Replacing Power Steering Reservoir, Coolant Bottle, and Wheel Arch Liner

1. Bolt the power steering reservoir back onto the bracket using the 8mm bolt.
2. Slide the coolant bottle back into its clips and reconnect the hose to the plastic clip.
3. Make sure everything is properly secured and aligned.

Now, you can reassemble the wheel arch liner and properly fit the wheel onto the vehicle.

Conclusion

Congratulations! You have successfully replaced the auxiliary belts on your Focus 1.6 with a 16-valve zetec engine. By following these steps and using the appropriate tools, you were able to complete the task efficiently and easily. Regularly maintaining and replacing auxiliary belts will ensure the optimal performance and longevity of your vehicle's components. Remember to always measure the new belt against the old one and properly align it on the pulleys. Enjoy your smooth-running engine!

FAQs

Q: How often should I replace the auxiliary belts in my vehicle? A: It is recommended to inspect the condition of the auxiliary belts during regular maintenance intervals, typically every 60,000 miles or as advised by your vehicle's manufacturer. Replace them if signs of wear, cracking, or stretching are evident.

Q: Can I use any lever bar for the alternator replacement? A: Yes, as long as the lever bar is long enough to provide sufficient leverage. It should also be strong and sturdy enough to apply force without bending or breaking.

Q: Do I need any special tools to replace the auxiliary belts? A: While there are special tools available for this task, such as belt tensioner tools, they are not necessary. The lever bar method described in this article provides an effective alternative that is easier to use.

Q: How do I know if my auxiliary belts need replacing? A: Pay attention to any squealing noises coming from the engine, especially when starting the vehicle or using components such as the air conditioning or power steering. Inspect the belts visually for signs of wear, fraying, cracking, or stretching. If in doubt, consult a professional mechanic for a thorough inspection and replacement if necessary.

Q: Are there any precautions I should take while replacing the auxiliary belts? A: Safety should always be a priority. Ensure that the vehicle is properly supported with jack stands and follow all guidelines for working under a vehicle. Take caution when handling tools and be mindful of your surroundings. If unsure about any step, refer to your vehicle's user manual or consult a professional mechanic.

Q: Can I reuse the old auxiliary belts if they are still in good condition? A: It is generally recommended to replace the auxiliary belts with new ones during maintenance. Over time, belts can become stretched and lose their tension, which can affect their performance. Installing new belts ensures optimal performance and reduces the risk of future issues.