Failing or slipping belts can cause all kinds of headaches.  Sqeaking or squealing from the engine bay is one sign of bad belts.  Inspect belt condition to make sure you have no cracks (in the inside edge) or excessive glazing (on the pulley contact areas).  Fine black powder all over the front of the engine can be a sign that the belts are degrading to a loose belt, misalign pulley or failing pulley (bearing).

As a rule of thumb, tightness should be about ¼" deflection at the WIDEST span for V-belts.  Overtightening can cause (pulley) bearing failures and accelerated belt wear.



Questions?  Comments?  Send mail to:  reted@fc3spro.com

03/14/2004