What should the tension be on an alternator belt?

Push down on the ruler and measure the gap that forms between the belt and the straight edge. If the pulleys are seven-to-eleven inches apart, the belt should move 1/4-inch. If the distance is over 11-inches, the belt should move no more than 1/2 inch. Adjust the belt by loosening the alternator mounting bolts with a ratchet and socket.

How can I adjust the tension on my drive belt?

When the tension is correct, tighten the adjusting strap bolts and the pivot bolt. Some cars have an idler-wheel pulley which presses on the belt. If yours does, turn the screw adjuster to move the wheel and alter the belt tension. This is often simpler than moving the generator. Unscrew the nut or nuts to split the two halves of the pulley.

What are the signs that an alternator is failing?

Common signs include grinding or squeaking noises coming from the belt, unusual belt wear, and belt-driven accessories like the alternator failing. 1. Grinding or squeaking noise from the belts or tensioner 2. Unusual belt wear 3. Belt-driven accessories fail Average rating from 129,829 customers who received a Vehicle Engine Mechanical Inspection.

Is there an auto tensioner on a serpentine belt?

Most serpentine belts have an auto-tensioner that automatically keeps the proper tension on the belt. However, some belts have an adjustment screw that applies tension to the belt.

What to do if your alternator belt tension is too tight?

If less than 5/16 in. (7.94 mm), the alternator belt tension is too tight. (5) Adjust the belt tension as required to get 5/16 in. (7.94 mm) distance (deflection). C. Belt Tension Gage using Lycoming tool number ST-131 (Figure 1): (1) Extend the hook to its extreme position by depressing the handle.

How do you adjust the tension on a serpentine belt?

Locate the adjuster bolt on the belt tensioner used to secure the serpentine belt, and adjust the tension by loosening or tightening the adjuster bolt with a racthet and socket while you simultaneously move the belt back and forth gently to find the proper tension.

Why do you need an automatic belt tensioner?

An automatic belt tensioner is spring loaded in order to naturally apply the proper amount of tension to the serpentine belt, which winds through the engine pulleys and is used to power multiple peripheral devices.

How long does it take to adjust an alternator belt?

You will need to adjust an alternator belt whenever it has been removed from the car. It’s easier to do this with two people, but one person can manage the job, and it will only take about 10 minutes. Feel underneath the alternator to find the bolt that mounts the alternator to the frame.