How Do I Replace A Drive Belt On A 1999 Mercury Sable?

You may need a special tool.

Go to an auto parts store and buy one of their belt tools. Should be about $25. On most late model cars an 1/2” drive ratchet handle seems to work ok too.

Now open the hood and take a very good look at the belt and note exactly where it goes. On some cars you may also have to remove covers. Take a digital photo or make a drawing. Be absolutely sure you know how the belt goes around all the pulleys. Some cars may have a sticker showing this.

Next use the belt tool (or wrench) to pull back the belt tensioner and then remove the old belt.  Slowly release the tensioner and then remove the old belt.

Before you put the new belt on inspect each pulley. They should not “wobble” at all and when you turn them by hand they should turn freely, there should not be a gritty or rough feel. Fix any problems before putting on a new belt. A worn out or damaged pulley can quickly destroy a new belt!

Get a new belt. Use the drawing/sticker or photo to place it over all the pulleys except for the tensioner pulley. Do not attempt to force it into place with any tools!  Now use the belt tool to pull back the belt tensioner and then slip the belt in place over the tensioner pulley. Slowly release the tensioner. Be sure you do not get any fingers caught as you release the belt tool, your engine will not run well with several of your fingers jammed into the belt pulleys.

Inspect your work. The belt should be fully on each pulley. If you see any problems pull back the tensioner again and set things right. Remove the belt tool and start up the engine.