Need to replace AC belt

Belt makes chirpy noise when at idle.. sprayed some belt dressing and the noise immediately went away.

At this point, it's either a loose belt or need a new belt.

How difficult is either to do? Should I try to tighten it a bit?

How much would it cost to get the belt replaced at a shop?

EDIT: I have teh 3.4L

 

replacing and tightening the belt are both pretty easy. the determing factor on either tightening or replacing is how many miles are on your belt now. if it's a bit of miles might as well change it, but if you're going to do that you should probably change the other belt too. if i can remember right there are tensioners on the ac pump and the power steering pump. when i did it i think i paid $30 for both belts and it took me maybe 30 minutes to change them both

 

If you have the V6 it can go pretty quickly. I can change all three belts in about 30 minutes or so. It is best to take the airbox out to reach the power steering pump tensioner. the AC belt is super simple, just loosen the face nut on the idler pulley and then loosen the bolt just under the pulley. And the alternator belt is easy as well. Loosen the top most bolt on the alternator, the nut on the tensioner assembly, and then loosen the tensioner bolt.

 

When checking belt tension or replacing belt, how are you guys determing the tension after you put on the new belt? Do I really need one of those $100+ belt tension measuring device that's mentioned in the service manual?

 

i don't have one i've used one but personally i think that they are a waste of money. i usually get the belts in and using my thumb i push the belt down so i get roughly 1/2" tops of play on them.

 

Yes, no more than 1/2" of play. Basically you will be able to know when you have tension enough. You don't need that fancy tool crap. (For this job anyways)

 

But the amount of play depends on what part of the open span you are pushing.. the larger the span, the more play there is...

So are you guys pushing the top part of the belt, right behind the fan?

Also, is there a DIY writeup for belt changing on the 3400? I couldn't find it.. ThX!

 

From the longest span on each belt. Like I said, you will know. You want it tight, but not torqued down. If there is i write-up I don't know whare it is.

Once you get the airbox out of there you can get at everything a lot better. And you are probably going to have to remove the skidplate.(mine is gone so I don't remember for sure). The power steering pump has one nut to loosen and then you do the tensioner bold. The alternator has one nut and one bolt to loosen before you can release the tension with the tensioner bolt. And the AC has one nut and then you loosen the bolt and the whole pully will raise and release the tension. Just Don't put the power steering belt onto the alternator because you will get all the way to the PS pump and realize you screwed up and have to do it all over again. Upside is that you will be able to do it with your eyes closed next time.