Adjusting V-Belt Tension
*MEDIUM*
To adjust V-belt tension, follow this procedure:
- Park the vehicle on level ground with the engine OFF, the parking brake
engaged, and the transmission in PARK (for automatic) or REVERSE (for manual).
Raise the hood. Loosen, but do not remove, the adjustment nut behind the
slotted alternator support bracket or slotted idler pulley bracket.
It may be necessary to loosen the other mounting bolt as well to permit the alternator or idler pulley to rotate. - To increase belt tension, use a padded tire iron, crow bar or similar wooden tool to pry the alternator housing away from the engine. Be certain the tool is wedged against a firm part like the engine block. Do not pry against the alternator pulley or the bearings might be damaged. Tighten the adjustment nut behind the alternator support bracket while holding the lever. Then tighten the lower mounting bolt if it was loosened too.
- To decrease belt tension, pry the alternator toward the engine. Be careful not to damage other engine parts as indicated above. Again, tighten the adjustment nut behind the alternator support bracket while holding the lever tool in place.
- If an additional belt, such as the power steering pump belt, needs tension adjustment, follow the above procedure with the bolts used to attach that particular accessory. Be certain not to damage the accessory housing, which may be composed of soft metal.
- Check the belt tension after a few weeks and readjust it again if necessary.
