Serp belt how-to?

[Smileybug]

Figured I'd ask here since I'm getting typical "hey you're a girl!" type responses on the 'tex...le sigh. (ex "If your hot I'll do it for you" )

My GTI needs a serp belt replacement. I know its usually done with the timing belt (and supposedly it was in '09 since that's when the timing belt job was done and the belt was purchased - I have the records). Its starting to crack though and I'd rather not lose power to the car if it breaks. I know its a different car, but I imagine the procedure is more or less the same, especially if done on a Turbo S, since mine is the 180hp AWP motor.

Anyone have a good how-to for the serp belt or know of one? I do have the Bentley just haven't peeked in there quite yet. Its can be enough, but I do like having how-to's from those who have done it...usually some good tricks that the Bentley doesn't cover.

Thanks everyone!

[billymade]

Its not hard; nice to have someone hold the tensioner (with a wrench) while you pull off and then put the new one back on. It can be done by yourself, however; GTI probably has more room too! When your in there; make sure your over run pulley on your alternator is working correctly (remove the black plastic cover on the front of the pulley) and isn't siezed or not doing its job!

Try this diy:

DIY: Serpentine Belt Replacement 2.0 / 1.8T (MKIV)

Belt routing diagram:

http://www.fixya.com/cars/t3215080-b..._vw_jetta_1_8t

How to check your alternator over run pulley:

http://www.gates.com/europe/oap/Replacement.html

[Smileybug]

THANK YOU! Nice to be treated as an equal here and not get stupid comments made because I'm a woman. Boo the the dudes on the 'tex!

[billymade]

The 'tex has allot of good tech info but it is notorious for the typical internet forum behavior that is such a drag.

Some info on my OAP diagnoses and repair:

alternator pully failure; what is best brand replacement to buy?

[Smileybug]

Luckily I don't think I'm having any real issues, just a cracked belt. Hopefully it should be easy enough. Won't be tackling it for a few weeks yet probably but want to have all my ducks in a row before I break into it.

I do love the 'tex for its information. I have a decent number of posts there too. I just can't help but get frustrated when I get crap like that. I'm pretty thick skinned, but I just get really annoyed. Everyone is always like "why aren't there more women around here" and that type of thing is exactly why...doesn't make sense.

[billymade]

Well, your in there; make sure the oap is good, I drove around for many years and didn't know it was bad! The belt path would get noisy and the belts would chirp, get glazed... then I would replace it and then it would happen again. I have heard other 1.8T's with the same issue (chirping, noisy belt path); it wouldn't surprise me if there are many with oap's that are bad and people don't even know it.

Good video about the OAP on VW's:

Alternator clutch pulley diagnose and replacing,VW / AUDI /SEAT / SKODA - YouTube

In my case; my OAP seized; thus the noise, belts wearing out.

Overall info about OAP's:

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=c3aF2USQaDQ