Looked all over for assistance on changing the belt on my 2008 JK. I've read where all you need to do is find the square hole on the idler pulley and pry it with a 1/2 breaker bar to release the tension. Aren't there bolts that also have to be loosened in order to move the idler pulley? Is it really as simple as just prying on the idler pulley, removing/replacing the belt and then let the pulley come back into place?

 

Yep, just pry on the pulley and you're all set. It's a simple process....thankfully.

 

Yup...that simple. Draw a diagram or take a pic of the routing...install ratchet into tensioner arm...loosen tension and remove belt and install new one...takes 5 min!

 

So there are NO BOLTS TO LOOSEN?

My belt is actually OK... but I'm driving to Puerto Vallarta from Portland, OR. soon and thought I would buy a new one... just to have with me in case it breaks in the middle of nowhere.

 

Nope, just remove tension and swap in new belt.

 

When you're done, stuff the old one (if it is in reasonable shape) into your storage cubby right next to that old wiper blade you should also keep in there. Just in case you ever need a trail spare.

 

Haha... just changed my wipers yesterday... and YUP, already put them in the cubby. Haven't decided if I'm going to change out the belt before I go... or just keep the new one as a backup.

 

change the belt out now so you know what you are doing without the stress of doing it while stranded on the side of the road.

 

Ya... thought about that... and from the comfort of my own garage.

 

Yes, it is easy to do. I did mine at 80k. It was fine, had no obvious defects but personally I like to replace before it breaks and leaves me stranded. Now I have a backup if needed.