Easy Steps to Replace Auxiliary Belts on Ford Focus 1.6 Zetec
Table of Contents
- Introduction
- Removing the Wheel and Wheel Arch Liner
- Removing the Auxiliary Belts
- Measuring the New Belt
- Attaching the New Belt
- Tightening the Bolts
- Installing the Air Conditioning Belt
- Refitting the Power Steering Reservoir
- Reassembling the Coolant Reservoir
- Conclusion
🔹 Introduction
🔹 Removing the Wheel and Wheel Arch Liner
Removing the wheel and wheel arch liner is the first step in replacing the auxiliary belts. To do this, you will need to remove the Torx 30 screws located underneath the front wing. There will also be screws on the inner part of the wing and a few under the front bumper. Once all the screws are removed, the wheel arch liner can be easily pulled out.
🔹 Removing the Auxiliary Belts
To remove the auxiliary belts, you can cut them off with a knife or use an 18mm socket to loosen them. First, remove the spark plugs to make it easier to turn the engine over. Then, use a screwdriver to pull the belt towards you while turning the engine clockwise. This will cause the belt to come off the pulleys.
🔹 Measuring the New Belt
Before fitting the new belt, it is important to measure it against the old one to ensure they are the same length. Stretch both belts out and compare their lengths. This step is crucial as using the wrong belt can cause difficulties and delays during the installation process.
🔹 Attaching the New Belt
To attach the new belt, start by feeding it around the crankshaft pulley, then proceed to wrap it around the power steering pump pulley and the alternator pulley. Finally, have it positioned halfway across the water pump pulley. Since the new belt may be shorter and require stretching, a lever bar can be used to pull the alternator down and slide the belt onto the water pump pulley.
🔹 Tightening the Bolts
After the belt is properly positioned on all the pulleys, tighten the bolts holding the alternator in place. Start by tightening the stud, followed by the 15mm nut and bolt at the top. Finally, tighten the 15mm bolt at the bottom of the alternator to prevent any movement.
🔹 Installing the Air Conditioning Belt
Installing the air conditioning belt is even easier. Begin by putting the belt around the air conditioning pump pulley, then place it on the bottom half of the crankshaft. While pushing the belt with your thumb, turn the crankshaft clockwise to help the belt slide onto the air conditioning pump pulley. If the belt comes off one ridge, simply push it back on by spinning the engine and guiding it with your thumb.
🔹 Refitting the Power Steering Reservoir
To refit the power steering reservoir, attach it to the bracket with the eight-millimeter bolt. Ensure it is securely in place.
🔹 Reassembling the Coolant Reservoir
Slide the coolant reservoir back into its clips, making sure it aligns with the locators. Additionally, reposition the hose that connects to the bottom of the bottle, ensuring it is removed from the plastic clip.
🔹 Conclusion
Changing the auxiliary belts may seem challenging, but by following these steps and using the lever bar method, the process becomes much simpler. Remember to always measure the new belt against the old one to avoid fitting the wrong belt. With some patience and attention to detail, replacing the auxiliary belts on your Focus 1.6 engine can be done efficiently and effectively.
FAQ:
Q: Can I replace the auxiliary belts without removing the wheel arch liner?
A: While it is possible to replace the auxiliary belts without removing the wheel arch liner, it is highly recommended to remove it for better access and ease of installation.
Q: How do I know if the new belt is the correct length?
A: It is important to measure the new belt against the old one before fitting it. Stretch both belts out and compare their lengths to ensure they are approximately the same.
Q: Do I need any special tools to replace the auxiliary belts?
A: While there is a special tool available for changing the belts, it is not necessary. The lever bar method described in this article is a convenient alternative that provides good results.
Q: How often should the auxiliary belts be replaced?
A: It is recommended to replace the auxiliary belts every 60,000 to 90,000 miles or as specified by the manufacturer's guidelines.
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