could someone tell me the best (easiest) way to tighten up the fan belt on my 289.
the alternator squeek which im sure is caused by this is drivin me up a wall.

 

loosen both alternator bolts, take, and pull the alternator towards the passenger side. It should tighten the belt. Hold it and tighten down bolts. YOu may need to use a pry bar or something of that nature.

 

When does it squeek? All the time, intermitently, or at a certain RPM? ALso is it a continuous squeal? If you dont have power steering then the alternator is probably it. I use a prybar under the alternator case after losening the bolts, hold it up and tighten it. Just like 6 said...

 

The problem here is whether the belt is too loose and it causes it to squeel. Tightening it up is fine within limits, too tight and you wearout the bearings. If you can't get rid of the squeek, very likely the alternator bearings are already going. Remember, too loose and the belt slips, too tight and you'll wearout the bearings prematurely. Should be about 1/2" deflection at the center of the belt with nominal pressure applied. There are also belt dressings available that can help quiet a noisy belt. Ultimately, if it is the alternator itself, nothing to do but replace it.

 

it usually squeeks the worst when you rev. the motor. its really hard to hear while just idling but really comes on when the motor is revved up.