illustration shows examples of damage
to coolant hoses. Any of conditions
shown is cause for replacement.
(Courtesy of Gates Rubber Company,
Inc.)
Engine drive belt service
Drive belts and pulleys transfer power
from the engine crankshaft to various
accessories. E46 models use two
poly-ribbed (serpentine) belts:
The outer belt only turns the A/C
compressor
The inner, longer belt activates the
alternator, coolant pump and
power steering.
Automatic belt tensioners are used to
keep the belts tensioned properly.
Unless a tensioner mechanism
malfunctions, the poly-ribbed belts do
not require tension adjustment.
Inspect drive belts with the engine off.
If the belt shows signs of wear,
cracking, glazing, or missing sections,
it should be replaced immediately. To
reduce the chance of belt failure while
driving, replacement of the belts every
four years is recommended.
Note:
When belts are replaced with new ones,
store the old set in the luggage
compartment for emergency use.
To remove drive belts:
Use long-handled wrench to turn
A/C belt tensioner release lug (
A
)
clockwise (against spring tension).
Remove A/C belt.
Maintenance
http://ebahn.bentleypublishers.com/BMW/3/E46/Repair%20Manuals/0...
3 of 8
2/25/2009 10:03 PM