Belt Too Tight?

1647 Views 3 Replies 3 Participants Last post by Axnjxn, Jun 17, 2002

Dan66

Discussion Starter · Jun 17, 2002

Hi folks,

Some of you may recall, I've posted a couple times about a new "swish-swish" sound coming from my engine. It's only been since I installed a new water pump, flex fan, and fan belt (amog other things).

Could it possibly be the new belt - could I have it too tight? The alternator was positioned all the way at the end of its bracket with the old belt, so it had obviously stretched over the years. It sits a couple inches closer in with the new one. I didn't even use a pry-bar to tighten it.

What's the rule of thumb for adjusting the tension on a new fan belt? Could a too-tight belt result in my new swishing sound?

Thanks!

Save

1 - 4 of 4 Posts

Huskinhano

· #2 · Jun 17, 2002

You should have about 3/8" deflection in the belt. If it's real taught, you'll trash the water pump, alt and place a heavy load on the top main bearing in the front.

The belt needs only to be tight enough so it doesn't slip.

Save

Dan66

Discussion Starter · #3 · Jun 17, 2002

Thanks Tom.

I stepped outside and losened the belt, and I do believe the mystery sound is gone - Of course, now I have the squeal of a too-loose belt! If it ain't one thing, it's another! I just need to find the comfortable medium.

Thanks again!

Save

Axnjxn

· #4 · Jun 17, 2002

It's pretty tough to make it "too tight" by hand. I would check to make sure one of your alternator bearings isn't going bad as well.

Save

1 - 4 of 4 Posts

This is an older thread, you may not receive a response, and could be reviving an old thread. Please consider creating a new thread.

Top Contributors this Month