Hi guys. New to this forum.
I have a 98 Sunfire with the 2.2 motor. I need to replace the alternator, but how in the heck can you get a wrench in there to losen the belt? I know it's a 15mm bolt, but I can't even get in there with a serpentine belt wrench. I can put the socket on without the wrench, but it wont fit with it attached to the wrench. There's not enought clearance between the pully and the inner fender well. Do I need to go in thru the fender? I don't see where that would make a difference.
I would appreciate all your expertise on this one.

I use a pry bar and push down on the tensioner as i have someone else remove or install the belt. Seems to be the easiest and only way i know to do it.

Jason Adamson wrote:I use a pry bar and push down on the tensioner as i have someone else remove or install the belt. Seems to be the easiest and only way i know to do it.

that's the way i've done it both times i've had to replace my alternator.

I have replaced my several times using a wrench, just get something to brace it and/or get someone to give you a hand with it.

Additionally, I advise you to stretch the new belt around something, say the passenger side seat, for a day or two, to remove any storage curves/twists in the belt. Trust me, it will go on alot easier this way.