Tried a search but no luck finding anything but alternator belt information. My Power steering belt exploded. To replace it I have to move both the alternator and AC belts first, since it is in the back pulley on the fan. The alternator and PS pump slide on a bracket and are pretty easy to figure out. I am just having trouble figuring out how to remove the belt from the AC Compressor. Thanks, Guys. I appreciate it. Usually, I can figure this stuff out. Edit: 1990 F=250 7.3L non-turbo IDI

How do I remove the belt from the AC compressor? in case you didn't read the story above.

 

Locate tensioner and relieve tension. I use a 1/2 inch drive breaker bar setup.

 

I don't see a tensioner. I see the compressor and the fan and the thing under the fan (water pump) That's all the belt connects to.

 

If your truck does not have a tensioner pully then you need to follow the belt and see where the belt adjustment is. For example it could be an alternator, A/c compressor, steering pump that has an pivot area to tighten or loosen belt. Its possible that one of the pullys will have a bolt behind it to move pully up or down to control tension.

 

It was a couple of bolts and then the bracket slides like the PS and the Alt. I just didn't expect the bracket for it to be that big. My new problem is that the alternator belt I got at autozone is soooo small. Even with the alternator slid all the way down (only goes halfway down the bracket before the back of the alternator hits the metal on the back) the new belt will not go on. This is an refurbished alternator. I was worried the alternator is slightly the wrong size and that's what allows it to not slide all the way down so I can get the belt on. This is more frustrating than it should be.

 

the monkey behind the counter at autozoo most likely gave you the wrong belt.

 

Its the same number as listed on their website. Could their database have the wrong size? Should I try napa?

 

yup. their computers are so full of mistakes, it is a wonder they ever get any sales rite.
bring in the old belt with you to match it up with the new one before you leave the store.

 

Forgot I never posted how this turned out, I like to for people who google and end up on the thread 6 years later. The belt should go on pretty easy, if it seems like it won't stretch far enough it is the wrong size. The autozone database was wrong, cost me 3 times more at napa, but at least the belt is the right size now.