Power steering

[MY57BUICK]

Hello, It's been awhile, but time for another helpful answer. I need to change the fan belts on my 1957 Buick Century. The generator belt seems like no problem but the power steering belt is, as I can't find out how to loosen that belt for removal and replacement. Any help appreciated. BTW no A/C.

 

[Bob]

In the 1957 Buick Maintenance Manual, Group 2 - Engine, Cooling System, "Click Here" on page 2-38, it describes tightening of fan belts. It suggests that you refer to Section 8-12, (c), which doesn't work out. However, looking at page8-11 (c), It describes:
Drive Belt Adjustment, Torque on Pulley Nut to Slip Belt... 40-45 Ft. Lbs. (New Belt), 30-35 Ft.Lbs. (Old Belt)
It looks like you just loosen the pulley nut and lever it to adjustment.

 

[TODD]

The drawing in the '57 shop manual is faint and the instructions are a little vague. Loosening the 2 bolts that hold the pump to the bracket will allow the pump to pivot around the outer mounting bolt. Then the belt can be removed after the tension is released. See attached drawing from the '58 manual which is a little clearer. Better still is a picture of the back of an actual bracket.

To reassemble, install the belt and rock the pump outward to apply tension. Then tighten the pump mounting bolts. Correct tension can be determined by applying a torque wrench to the pump pulley bolt and see how much torque it takes to make the pulley slip in the belt.

Find 1956 - 57 Buick Power Steering Pump Bracket - Possibly Chevy, Pontiac, Olds in Bartlett, Illinois, United States, for US $9.99

Find 1956 - 57 Buick Power Steering Pump Bracket - Possibly Chevy, Pontiac, Olds in Bartlett, Illinois, United States, for US $9.99

www.2040-parts.com