SYSTEMS
ACCESSORY DRIVE BELTS
INSPECTING DRIVE BELTS
ADJUSTING V-BELT TENSIONAdjusting Drive Belt Tension
You should adjust the drive belt tension if it is incorrect. Belt tension cannot be too tight nor too loose. If the tension is too tight, the belts will break or damage bearings in accessories such as the water pump, air conditioning compressor, power steering pump, or alternator. These components will wear out quickly. However, if too loose, the belt will slip, wear prematurely, and not drive the accessory components properly. Furthermore, the whipping action of a loose belt can also damage pulley bearings due to repeated impact load. Thus, belt tension must be just right.
SYSTEMS ACCESSORY DRIVE BELTS INSPECTING DRIVE BELTS ADJUSTING V-BELT TENSION