Changing the "drive" belt on a 2001 4 Cylinder

[hl]

I have a 2001 Highlander with the 4 cylinder. The original drive belt (alternator/power steering/etc) needs to be replaced and I probably can do it, but this will be the first time I have attempted the Highlander and I was wondering if anyone can give me a pointer as to the tension release procedure? This is the external belt. No timing belt on this model--has a chain instead. I appreciate any help.

[hl]

Originally Posted by hl

I have a 2001 Highlander with the 4 cylinder. The original drive belt (alternator/power steering/etc) needs to be replaced and I probably can do it, but this will be the first time I have attempted the Highlander and I was wondering if anyone can give me a pointer as to the tension release procedure? This is the external belt. No timing belt on this model--has a chain instead. I appreciate any help.

Found some help on Google and got it done--not quick or easy.

[bepperb]

Is it difficult to do because of the small amount of space and large numbers of pulleys, or is there another catch I'm not thinking of?

I assume the tension is released by the alternator like other Toyota's, but I didn't have a chance to look last night.

Congrats on a job done.

[hl]

I like this vehicle and the 4 cyl is plenty for me--BUT that was one of the most difficult belts I have changed in 40 years. Had to pull the tire and an inner fender panel to thread the belt around and the main trick was to NOT try to put the final "slip on" of the belt at the alternator while pressing down as hard as you can on the tensioner wrench lug--the final sideways "slip on" of the belt had to be the smooth roller drive (no raised edge) for the water pump. I can only imagine what a dealership would have charged for the job that an experienced mechanic would have done in a fraction of the time.