I can't seem to find any guides on replacing the serpentine belts of my 97 a4 1.8tq. I know there has to be some out there...can you guys post a link if you can find one. I really don't want to pull the front end. I noticed one had a small piece out of it only about 1/8", but would rather do them all and not risk one snapping and taking something else out with it. From what I've read it's gonna be a pita...my mustang takes about 45 seconds for both and done....dang compact audi's

 

Here I'll do you one better:

Step 1: use an open-ended wrench to compress the tensioner and hold it there
Step 2: Take off belt

Install is the reverse of removal.

 

Is it that easy for all 3? Won't the fan get in the way? Do you have a diagram of where the tensioners are? I have tools it's just super tight in between the radiator and engine.

 

The 2 serpentine belts have a spring-loaded tensioner, one accessible from the top and one from the bottom. I think the bottom one needs a large hex key instead of a wrench, but same concept. Diagrams are easy to find, google is your friend here. The v-belt for the water pump is a bit more annoying to reach with the fan in the way, better to just leave it alone until you do the t-belt unless it's really bad.

I'm running an electric fan so I don't have experience with the clutch fan in the way, but it should be doable without removal.

 

well i'll order the belts. and hope I can get them all. I really don't want to put the front into service position to change belts.