Hey guys and girls,

it's time to replace my accessory belts. Is there a short and easy way to properly tension the new belts?

And I am leaving on a 2000 miles trip, would new belts need re-tensioning before I get back?

Thanks

Paul

 

bump

 

The WSM recommends tensioning them enough that they deflect only 10mm or so when pushed hard.

I used a metal ruler steadied against the sump to check deflection to achieve that 10mm - have had no flapping or slippage since.

 

Thank you Hilton,

can I assume that you used the same procedure for every belt?
and that you measured in the middle of the span?

Paul

 

All belts except the air pump. That belt you do not want to over tighten because it leads to worn bearings.

 

That is the one belt I no longer have

Thanks

Paul

 

Paul..........the 10mm spec is correct although I seem to remember the alternator being different.

I'll peek at the WSM and BRB.

 

The grey matter is working; pages 13-18 and beyond discuss the belts, the 10mm spec and then using the fancy belt tool for the post '85 alternator belt.

IIRC from an old post someone described the tension using the 'tool' as bow string tight...............I didn't go that far but its quite tight and no worries after many miles without the 'tool'.

 

Paul--

The alternator gets tightened more than the others. The rule-of-thumb I use us hard thumb pressure deflect the belt half its thickness. Using that guidance, you'll find that the alternator belt is tighter. So far so good using that rule.

As far as retensioning, v-belts will wear slightly on the sides as they get used to the pulleys, so may need a touch-up after a few thousand miles. The ribbed belt for the alternator will likely not need any adjustment with no sides rubbing on the pulleys and wearing in.

Have a safe and enjoyable trip!

 

no science here - I did not tighten my belts oh-so-tight, in fact they may be a little loose. I figured I would tighten them if it became a problem. There as been no problem.

not that there is anything wrong with science

 

Malcolm, Bob,

that sounds easy enough

thank you kind Sirs

Paul