i have a 2008 (58) plate focus 2.0l zetec. the stretch belt has been squeeking when cold for a month or two now so i need to get it swapped. any hints or tips on the quickest and easiest way to do it????

Thanks

Hiya, it's quite an easy job but you'll have to make sure you get the tension of the belt perfect as if it's too loose then it will slip but if it's too tight then you'll risk damaging the bearings of your alternator/ A/C compressor etc.

You'll have one or two tensioners which will need to be slackened off to allow the belt to be removed, then put the new one back on making sure it's wrapped properly around all the pulleys. I'm sure there's probably a special Ford tool needed but you may be able to get around it, in fact I've changed these v-belts on many cars and never had any issues not using any specialist tools which might be required. A main agent would use a tool to measure & check the tension once it's been replaced however it should be fine if you have about 1/4 of an inch of play in the belt in the mid position somewhere, you'll be able to feel when it's right.

To get better access remove the splash cover in the wheel arch on the driver's side of the vehicle as this will give you better access to everything and will make the job sooo much easier. I don't know whether you'll need to remove the upper engine mount but if you do get a peice of wood and support the engine on a jack underneath the sump so it doesn't damage anything when you take off the engine mount.

Hope that helps, I'm not 100% sure on the procedure with your particular engine however these are just general things to look out for.

Dan :)

ok thanks Dan. I hope i dont have to remove the engine mount but seeing how tightly packed everything is between the chassis rail and engine on the drivers side it wouldnt surprise me. i shall give it a go in the next week or so and hopefully get it sorted without much fuss. thanks again