Belt tension can be checked by pressing on the belt at the center point of its longest straight run. The belt should give about 1⁄4 – 1⁄2 in. If the belt is loose, it will slip. If the belt is too tight it will damage bearings in the driven unit. Those units being driven, such as the alternator, power steering pump or compressor, have a bolt which when loosened allows the unit to move for belt adjustment. Sometimes it is necessary to loosen the pivot bolt also, to make the adjustment.
| Fig. 1: Checking ribbed belt alignment
|
