N52 AC Stretch Belt Installation Tool
 

What tool is everyone using or recommending for the installation of a "stretch belt" on an N52 with 4-zone climate control?

The correct BMW tool is part number 83300496084 and you can visit here for an image of what that looks like, around $165

https://www.rmeuropean.com/Products/...2-MFG1220.aspx

Alternatively for only $22 there is a CTA tool but it's for an N62 with stretch AC belt. Not sure if anyone has used a more simple tool like this for the job.

https://www.amazon.com/CTA-Tools-345.../dp/B00VX0QJUQ

Thanks

Look at the review stars! I would buy that for sure. I may need it I think n63 might use stretch belt.

My n55 doesn't have an ac belt.

This link worked great for me.
All you need is a vise, ball pein hammer and scrap of steel bar stock

https://xoutpost.com/bmw-sav-forums/...my-2008-a.html

Great link, thanks for sharing. I'm going to make one of the tools today.

Update. I tried making the DIY tool but definitely didn't work for me. I ended up buying the BMW genuine tool, and even with that tool, it was an extremely tight fit to get the belt up onto the pulleys. Takes about 1 minute with the tool, feels like you're going to injure yourself while using it.

Lisle 59370

In the info for that tool it says not for bmw however in the reviews somebody used on e70 but they didn't say which motor.

It's cheap I put in my cart for later. I believe wifes n63 uses. I think my n55 does not (only one serp belt with a ludicrously tight tensioner. )
Come to think of it, the tool would likely help install on my car also.

Actually I could be mistaken here. Did not realize the ac belt was inboard on the n52. I have used it on my 2 M57s and it works great for those. Still may be worth a try at <$20.

After installing using the BMW genuine tool, I would recommend anyone needing the tool to get the genuine tool. Even with it, installation was extremely tight to get the belt on. Using the wrong/cheap tool could result in damaging the pulley on the AC compressor which itself has a unique design, unlike most other BMW compressors.

Just looked up for N63 and it has a sliding crank pulley; remove the 4 bolts and turn the crank 180° and it loosens, replace belt and turn crank 180° to tighten and move the pulley back where you can reinstall the bolts.

So wife's and my car I'm good.

Have a customer with n52 motor however so I'm glad for this thread I'll likey be changing that belt this summer when I change his belt tensioner.