11 28 010 Replacing alternator drive belt (M52/S52/M52TU/M54/M56)

WARNING: This page is about a different car, the 2003 BMW 530i, 2002 BMW 530i, and 2001 BMW 530i. However, it is still accessible from the selected car via links, so may be relevant.

NOTE: If the drive belt is to be subsequently reused:

Mark direction of travel and reinstall drive belt in same direction of travel.

Necessary preliminary tasks:

Remove fan clutch with fan impeller, refer to 11 52 020 REMOVING AND INSTALLING/REPLACING FAN CLUTCH (S52/S54/M52/M52TU/M54/M56) .
Remove A/C compressor drive belt, refer to 11 28 050 REPLACING A/C COMPRESSOR DRIVE BELT (M52/S52/M52TU/M54/M56) .

Remove cap from tensioning roller.

Fig 1: Removing Cap From Tensioning Roller

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Relieve tension on belt drive.

Remove drive belt.

Fig 2: Removing Drive Belt

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IMPORTANT: Drive belt must be replaced if fouled with hydraulic fluid.

Installation:

Check drive belt for coolant and oil residues, replace if necessary.

Installation:

Check that belt is correctly positioned on belt pulleys.

Fig 3: Checking Alternator Belt Routing

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Version With Auxiliary Tensioning Roller

Fig 4: Identifying Drive Belt Routing With Auxiliary Tensioning Roller

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Installation:

Locking device of auxiliary tensioning roller must snap into groove on alternator.

Fig 5: Locking Device Of Auxiliary Tensioning Roller

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