I need to replace a drive belt for a 2001 AU. Do I take the power steering pump off to do this??

Hi Serena,

No. There is what is called a serpentine belt on the Taurus engine. WE ARE talking about a Taurus aren't we?

Before proceeding, look for a diagram (Under the hood somewhere) of the routing for the belt. If none exists, draw a picture. This will help you putting the new one on.

Anyway, this single belt is held tight by a spring loaded tensioner pulley. It will be a smaller one, attached to an arm, not a pump or anything.

It's the arm that is spring loaded. The tension on the belt is relieved by the controlled application of force on this arm. Nothing needs to be removed, no pry bars are needs

There are different types, requiring different tools. Look for a 1/2" square hole on the arm. If there, you'll need a 1/2" ratchet or breaker bar. A short extension too.

If not, you'll need a socket that fits on the nut of the pulley. Plus the ratchet.

Set the ratchet so it extends upward, above the engine.

Position your self to be able to move the arm one handed and still not hit yourself in the face if it slips. Push (or pull), slowly building up until the belt is loose enough to to slip off of one of the other pulleys.

Then slowly release the tension on the arm.

Putting the new one on is pretty much a reverse of this procedure.

Hope you find this to be very helpful

Best regards,
Mike