How to Replace an Alternator Belt on a KIA Sephia
by Christian Killian
A serpentine belt drives the alternator on the Kia Sephia and changing it is a great project for the novice or home mechanic. The belt routing is important, so be sure to check the routing diagram on the radiator support under the hood to ensure you get the belt on correctly. If you are not able to find the diagram, check with an associate at any auto-parts store. They all have access to the diagrams and can print you a copy.
Step 1
Disconnect the negative battery terminal by loosening the clamp bolt on the battery cable end with a wrench, then lift the cable off the terminal. Isolate the cable from the battery terminals.
Step 2
Locate the serpentine belt tensioner on the front of the engine and insert a 1/2-inch drive breaker bar into the square hole in the tensioner arm. Rotate the tensioner arm counterclockwise, releasing the tension on the belt, then remove the belt from the pulleys. Pivot the tensioner back to the home position.
Step 3
Install a new serpentine belt over the pulleys but leave it off the tensioner for now. Be sure you follow the proper path over the pulleys or damage will occur to the accessories and the belt.
Step 4
Rotate the tensioner counterclockwise, then slide the belt onto the tensioner pulley. Slowly rotate the tensioner back to the home position, allowing it to tighten the belt to the proper tension. Remove the breaker bar from the tensioner and out of the engine compartment.
Step 5
Install the negative battery cable on the negative battery terminal, then tighten the clamp bolt on the cable end with a wrench. Start the engine and visually check the belt to ensure it is not wobbling or out of alignment.
References
- "Kia Sephia Factory Service Manual"; Kia Motor Company; 2002
Things You'll Need
- Wrench set
- 1/2-inch drive breaker bar
Writer Bio
Christian Killian has been a freelance journalist/photojournalist since 2006. After many years of working in auto parts and service positions, Killian decided to move into journalism full-time. He has been published in "1st Responder News" as well as in other trade magazines and newspapers in the last few years.
