How do i change the serpentine belt on my 01 catera?

Check the water pump, alternator, and a/c compressor pulleys for play and proper alignment. Replace any item that has play in the bearings.

sounds like you have the serpentine belt looped wrong on the water pump.

Go to youtube look this video.
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=WMXaw4xgogQ

Do you mean the serpentine engine belt that is on the outside or the timing chain within the engine case?, if it is outside, you should see a belt diagram on the engine crossmember, near the radiator, showing you how the belt is routed on the pulleys, also there should be a spring loaded pulley that keeps tension of the belt automatically, no adjusting of the belt, it will adjust the tension as needed, makes it easy, just pay attention to how it is routed, if you can't find a diagram sticker under the hood, then draw your own before you get it removed, also use a long pry bar to get the spring loaded pulley to work in you favor, good luck Rick

Here is the direct link to show you how to route the belt, you have to release the tensionor first.
http://www.bestvalueautoparts.com/Replacement_Parts/CADILLAC/CATERA/Illust_c_Belt_Routing.html copy and paste link into your address bar

the tensioner is spring loaded it will have a place on it to place a ratchet pull the tensioner away from belt then slide belt off remember how belt goes on if there is no diagram draw a picture before removing

On my 01 LeSabre, changing serpentine belt is a breeze.

Use a 5/8 socket and strong arm on the tensioner pully, rotate towards the back of the car to loose tension on the belt, then just slip the belt off. I was suprised how easy it was to do.

its spring loaded there is no adjustment to be made you just need to change it and or the belt

the serpentine belt diagram should be printed on bottom side of the hood. I have a 01 kia optima and mine is above the serpentine belt(when hood is closed)

have you check you ignition coil packs.