have a 02 Maxima and I am curious how to tighten the alternator belt. It squeaks when starting and goes away after awhile but once i press the gas it comes back and goes away when I take my foot of the gas. I have no idea what to tighten.

 

I'm actually experiencing the same thing.

 

Alternator belt is pretty easy. If I'm not mistaken, you simply loosen the lock bolt on the tensioner pulley (a) and then tighten the adjustment bolt from the top (b). After you've tightened the adjustment bolt (b), you tighten the lock bolt (a) that you originally loosened and you're done.




If it's an old belt, you may want to replace it.

Are you sure it's the main belt and not the P/S belt? That can be a PITA to replace since you have to access the bolts from under the car.

 

Would it be possible to use one of those car-stethoscopes to pinpoint the squeak?

 

If there's squealing at start up, the alt belt is the most likely culprit. Squealing when turning, especially lock-to-lock = PS belt. Apply moderate force on the belts with 2 fingers; deflection should be 1/4-1/2.'' In cold weather, 1/2'' for a worn belt is enough to make it squeal like a pig. PS belt is a real pisser to swap out but the alt belt is easy like Heel Til I Die said. Make sure to douse the lock nut and tensioner bolt with penetrating oil. Use a long wrench to get plenty of leverage. I've read stories on here about people rounding them off which would make for a bad day.

 

Serpentine belts need to be tight and the 1/2" deflection is too loose,
and if checked by a tension gauge one will find maybe a 1/4" deflection
at most.