I have a 2006 Chevy Malibu 2.2 Ecotech. I can't loosen that pulley unless I take off that motor mount that's in the way.I don't have a jack so. Can I successfully remove the motor mount then put on the belt on my new alternator. Or is the engine gunna fall without the mount?? I know probably a dumb question...
5
-
4I think you need to consider how you'll get the motor mount off in the first place, typically you need a jack to push the engine up to clear the mount.– GdDMar 30, 2022 at 11:54
-
1The engine will drop a certain amount if you remove a mount. Like @GdD says, depending on the design of the mount, you may even have to lift the engine a little to remove and replace the mount.– HandyHowieMar 30, 2022 at 14:10
-
7If you're going to do work on your own car, owning a floor jack and jack stands is a very worthwhile investment.– FreeManMar 30, 2022 at 18:17
-
Yes, jack_stands :)– paul garrettMar 31, 2022 at 1:01
-
Even if you can get the mount off without lifting the engine (because it'll drop)... you'll then need to... lift the engine to get the new mount on– Katastic VoyageMar 31, 2022 at 13:43
Add a comment
|
4 Answers
Option 1: use your spare tire jack with a 2x6 and jack engine at oil pan. Do not lift too hard or you'll damage pan.
Option 2: remove hood and use a come a long and lift from the top.
Best option: you are doing your own work so it is important to have the right tools to do it. This is for efficiency and safety. If you buy an adequate jack you will still save money and will be able to utilize it for future endeavors.
If you only have a bumper jack, try it this way. Raise the fromt bumper about 6 inches at the proper side. Loosen the motor mount bolts a bit. Place sturdy wood blocks under the engine close to the motor mount side. Start to lower the bumper jack and you will see the engine rise. Remove the bolts and continue to lower the front bumper. Stop lowering as soon as you can wiggle the mount away and out. Reverse to install the new one.
One way to support the engine without a jack to remove the motor mount is by using an engine support bar. I've used one for a timing belt change when the motor mount had to be removed. The photo below shows how it works. You could make something like this out of lumber, a threaded rod and some chain, or you could possibly rent one. Photo credit: ECStuning.com
-
Yes, that is what I've done on the rare cases where I've needed to do that, using a 2x4 and chain and whatnot, off the engine's lifting lugs. While there are lots of stupid tools you don't need (like the pictured lifting rig) or need once (like spring compressors, I get mine from tool lending programs offered by libraries and auto parts stores)... a basic hydraulic jack and jackstands are basic core tools that you will use a dozen times a year, for a lifetime. Or as long as cheap Chinese lasts, if you go that way. Mar 31, 2022 at 7:06
Alternatively do it a different way
I found it hard to believe that replacing a serpentine belt would need anything as drastic as removing engine mounts. True enough when I did a quick google (for "chevy malibu 2.2 ecotech serpentine belt"), the answer is simply that you're not doing it right.
From this link and various others, it seems that a special tool exists which is basically a very long, thin wrench. You can buy this tool, or fabricate your own. Granted that this is going to be an expensive tool, it's still going to be way cheaper than buying an engine hoist, or a long-reach jack and stands. And it's going to be waaaay cheaper than the time you'll spend lifting the engine, not to mention the distinct possibility that you'll bust the pan and have the extra cost and time of replacing that too.
That search also put up a bunch of Youtube videos. I've not checked them myself, but it seems likely you can learn from other people's experience on doing the same job.
Just as a general point by the way, please do google your problem before posting. The link above was just the first page from that search, so you could have found it yourself for less time than it took you to post here.
