I've got the A/C out except for the compressor. The dealer said they'd take it out for an hour and a half's labor at minimum. I don't feel like shelling out a hundred-plus bucks for this. Does anyone know if this is something I can reach myself with ordinary tools. And if so, can I tension the new belt properly myself as well?

 

I'm pretty sure that once you remove your compressor there is no need for a belt there at all, so you would not need to adjust it anyways. as for the removal, i'm pretty sure you can remove it w/ everyday tools.

 

is this for weight savings ?

 

On fifth gen Preludes, there are two belts: one for the power steering pump, the other for alternator and A/C. To remove the A/C compressor, you'll need to lift the car or the engine, so unless you have a full length hydraulic lift in your garage, or you like removing the engine mounts and jacking the engine block up, I'd suggest taking it to a garage. But it doesn't have to be the Honda dealer. Just to remove the compressor can be done by any back yard grease monkey garage. Now, finding the right belt to run the alternator without the compressor will be tricky. You need the right belt length (too tight will kill the bearings in the alternator), right thickness, and same amount and spacing of ribs. Other than a stock belt, I don't know who would make an exact fit to just the crank pulley and alternator. You can't just tension the belt..... once you remove the compressor, you need a different belt which won't be stock length, but must be stock in every other dimension. Good luck finding it.

 

The 5th gen came with AC as an option-the dealer will have the correct belt for your car after the removal. Another thing-if you have not purged the AC system-keep in mind it is illegal to vent it to the air. YES you can do the project at home with ordinary tools once you get access. Must note that there are several rubber plugs in the firewall that you will need to deal with if you are taking everything out.

Have fun

 

NO! Sorry to be blunt, but A/C is standard from the factory on all 1997-2001 Preludes..... every single one of them have it. They do NOT make a stock Honda belt for a 5th gen Prelude without A/C.

 

Thanx guys but I already have the belt, it's a NAPA--forgot the part#. $15.99

The dealer said I would (probably)only have to remove the alternator and the radiator. But I still don't know if my wrenches will get in there...

 

Sorry I didn't know they had one.... never bought anything but genuine Honda parts for my baby. Good luck fitting wrenches in there without busting your knuckels.

 

I got mine out, but its a real tight in there, and to get a new belt all u have to do is measure it with a piece of string around both pulleys and get a new belt at autozone.