Alternator belt replacement questions

[IamWedgend]

Hey all.

I've got a squealy 280i - mainly squeals when accelerating or changing gear which makes me think it's either a belt or some bearings.

I've checked the alternator belt and it's both loose (can turn it 180) and oily. I'm looking for a replacement, but my belt is unlabeled. Does anyone know if this will do the trick? https://www.burtonpower.com/alternator-belt-cologn...

Bonus question - what fluid goes in my PAS tank? It's taking some time to kick in once the engine is on and the fluid level is a bit low. Anyone know?

Best,
J

[BIG DUNC]

Why not start by just tightening it up and seeing if that solves the issue?

[IamWedgend]

I probably should do that! I think it needs replaced anyway though to be honest - it's much older than the PAS belt and looking a bit stretched and frayed.

By the way - are you an Everton fan?

[adam quantrill]

Neat washing up liquid to get the grease off.

[IamWedgend]

Hi both - thanks for the replies. Soaped the belt to some effect. However, really struggling to tighten.
I loosen both the mounting bolts on the alternator. The alternator can then be moved, but only about half an inch. I checked for obstacles but there is nothing impeding it.
I'm assuming it's meant to be able to slide right up and down as there is a long slide by the second bolt (see pictures below) . Any ideas what might be stopping it moving?

[Grumbly]

You need to loosen the pivot bolt on the adjuster arm to allow it to rotate with the alternator.

[BIG DUNC]

IamWedgend said:

I probably should do that! I think it needs replaced anyway though to be honest - it's much older than the PAS belt and looking a bit stretched and frayed.

By the way - are you an Everton fan?

No, not into football.
For your power steering fluid, the answer it ATF - automatic transmission fluid.

[IamWedgend]

@Grumbly - Thanks, kicking myself that I didn't realise that needed loosened too. Tightened now and works fine!

@BigDunc - Ah- we'll you share a name with a legendary Everton striker. Not a bad coincidence.

[adam quantrill]

Iam, what you need is one of my patented alternator adjuster bars!