Changing an alternator belt on a 350

[thedudeabides86]

Hey gearheads! So, I might have a silly question. I've got a '72 C20 with a 350 motor in it. How do I go about changing the alternator belt easily? Is that even a possibility? I changed my belt last night and had to loosen and separate the PS pump from the block to get around the PS pump belt, so I wouldn't have to remove the fan assembly. Am I making more work than I need to? Luckily the third bolt holding to PS pump to the block is too long and allows for a little wiggle room. I've posted a couple pictures below. The first picture with the circle shows the two PS pump bolts at the front. The second picture shows the third PS pump bolt that is a PITA to get to and is too long because by the time I realize I did finally get it tightened down, I was fed up with it. Any advice would be super helpful.

[berch 69GMC]

just switched to a longer belt last week and I already forgot how I did it. I was confused initially but I did not remove the water pump. My truck is at transmission shop so I can't look for reference. I do remember maneuvering the belt around the fan, then loosening the pulley of the other belt on the right side I think. I remember needing to make way so I could install the new alternator belt. Hope this helps.

[cleszkie]

Sounds like you are removing the PS pump brackets in order to get enough slack in the belt to remove it. All you need to do is loosed the two 9/16" nuts on the back of the PS pump and rotate it towards the harmonic balancer to get the belt off the pulley.

[thedudeabides86]

Originally Posted by cleszkie

Sounds like you are removing the PS pump brackets in order to get enough slack in the belt to remove it. All you need to do is loosed the two 9/16" nuts on the back of the PS pump and rotate it towards the harmonic balancer to get the belt off the pulley.

Every time I read your post it becomes more clear that that is a simpler way to do it. Do you have any advice as to how I could get in the area of that third bolt near the motor mount and get that out easy enough to not lose my sanity and put the correct length of bolt in there? Does anyone make slim sockets, if you will? Thanks for the clarification on the PS pump bracket.

[Steeveedee]

Whatever you do, don't pry on the pump reservoir when you loosen or tighten the belt. You will damage it. Looks like you have the rest of the information you need.