1999 civic ex
how in the world do I replace the a/c belt? Im literally stumped. I followed my service manual which states
1) remove ps pump/belt and lay to the side
2) remove a/c pulley, then remove pivot bolt
3) remove lower engine mount to gain access
4) remove belt.
5)install in reverse

Now I searched it 4 times- the bando belt i have is corrent, it just isn't long enough to clear camshaft and compressor pulleys, let alone get the tensioner in there
I dont get it, aside from buying a 36-37" poly ribbed belt- I can't for the life of me get the belt even on the compressor and the camshaft pulley not in there.
Any ideas---what am I missing?

 

youtube?
you don't mention year and model
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=jP3-aD4hccc

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=_4t6EABayLw

 

Loosen the idler pulley center nut and then turn the pulley adjusting bolt to lower the pulley more.

 

I took the entire pulley off- as well as the adjusting bracket-I believe the belt is a 32"
--I think I need at least a 36"