Alternator belt, release tension.

[seanrx]

Hi all.
My C5 (petrol ew10a rfj), I want to remove it's alternator.

But first I need to rotate the tensioner anti clockwise.

Are specialist tools needed? And can this job be possible working from the top of the engine only?

The tensioner pulley, it's ends, no hex nut seems to be there. To use a socket tool perhaps?

[MattBLancs]

This is the auxiliary belt tensioner on the EW10A (circa 2008, ex-307) the tensioner is moved by use of the square as can be seen. I think it suits a 3/8" square drive (medium sized ratchet) but can double check tomorrow morning for you.

[seanrx]

Thanks for reply and that's a great pic.

Working from top of engine will be an easier (hopefully!) repair.

[MattBLancs]

No problem, glad was helpful.

When you take the belt off, have a feel of the tensioner pulley, free play, dry bearings etc.

The one on the engine pictured was very dry, I carefully removed tensioner complete, then pulley from tensioner, then rubber seal from bearing. No grease remaining in the dry bearing, so "fed" it a little. Reassembled and reinstalled. Obviously, engine has not yet been put into service, so can't say for definite that regressing was sufficient, but hoping so.

It's also possible to buy replacement pulleys (as well as complete tensioner)

I'm not sure how much access there is in the C5 with an EW10 installed, you may need to pull the inlet manifold off to gain more room. I've done this on an EW10J4 in my 406 coupe and it wasn't as involved a task as you might first imagine.

Matt

[citroenguy]

Yep, a 3/8's ratchet will do. Preferrably a longer one.
For example https://www.drapertools.com/product/265 ... -48-tooth/

It is a bit tight on the C5 but if i remember correctly nothing else needs dismantling

[seanrx]

Update.

Replaced the alternator myself, with tips from a great vid on YouTube posted by mad4frenchcars. Could also be a forum member.

The job was actually very easy, no seized bolts. About 90mins all in.
For the cost of a £160 alt.
My garage quote was £430!

[MattBLancs]

Excellent, nicely done

[martinln65]

Then pulley from tensioner

I tried to replace the pulley only but it is super tight! any advise? sorry to hijack the link..

[martinln65]

No problem, glad was helpful.

When you take the belt off, have a feel of the tensioner pulley, free play, dry bearings etc.

The one on the engine pictured was very dry, I carefully removed tensioner complete, then pulley from tensioner, then rubber seal from bearing. No grease remaining in the dry bearing, so "fed" it a little. Reassembled and reinstalled. Obviously, engine has not yet been put into service, so can't say for definite that regressing was sufficient, but hoping so.

It's also possible to buy replacement pulleys (as well as complete tensioner)

I'm not sure how much access there is in the C5 with an EW10 installed, you may need to pull the inlet manifold off to gain more room. I've done this on an EW10J4 in my 406 coupe and it wasn't as involved a task as you might first imagine.

Matt

I tried to remove the pulley from tensioner but the bolt is super tight. is it Anti clockwise??

[MattBLancs]

I tried to remove the pulley from tensioner but the bolt is super tight. is it Anti clockwise??

I can't remember, but will have a look shortly and get back to you.

[MattBLancs]

I tried to remove the pulley from tensioner but the bolt is super tight. is it Anti clockwise??

Sorry for the delay slipped my mind completely last weekend!

This style of auxiliary belt tensioner:

(if eagle eyed, please ignore that it is currently mounted to EW10J4, it is an ew10a item!)

The bolt in centre of the pulley itself, 15mm head and anticlockwise thread.

Think it will have some Loctite on it - mine does/did

[martinln65]

Thanks for your help. Mine is super tight, i may needed to replace the whole tensioner..

[martinln65]

Do you mean anti-clockwise to loosen?

[MattBLancs]

Do you mean anti-clockwise to loosen?

Nope, that would be a normal thread.

I mean it's a reverse thread, so you will need to turn it clockwise to loosen

[martinln65]

OMG, No wonder it is so tight... LOL