Do you have to tension a new alternator belt?
Fitting a new alternator or auxiliary belt, as it is sometimes known, may look like a simple and straight forward task. Off with the old and on with the new. But the automatic tensioner needs to have the correct amount of tension on it. Too little and it will squeal, over heat and get damaged. Too much and you could damage pulleys and bearings.
Why is alignment important when installing a marine alternator?
IMPORTANT: Not all alternators, with a similar mount style, share the same offsets and this is why careful installation and proper alignment are critical. Belt & Pulley Choices No discussion regarding a marine alternator installation would be complete without discussing belt & pulley choices.
What’s the best way to replace an alternator?
Depress the latch clip on the electrical connector going to the voltage regulator and wiggle it out. Then loosen the locknut to the “BAT” cable and remove the ring terminal. Rotate the belt tensioner (if equipped) or loosen the tensioning bolt near the alternator. Then slide the belt off the alternator pulley. Replace the alternator.
Can a transverse bolt be used to move an alternator?
Some alternators will have a transverse bolt that allows you to move the alternator fore-and-aft in the bracket to adjust belt tension. If not, you may need to use a cheater to keep the alternator in place and take slack out of the belt (an assistant can help here) as you tighten the mounting bolts.
Can a manual tensioner be used to replace an alternator?
The belt tensioner will only travel (swing) so far which can make installing the belt difficult. Never pry or force the belt onto the pulley. Vehicles with a manual tensioner or the belt tightens with the alternator, there should about ½ inch of deflection in the belt between the pulleys with the greatest distance between them. 7
Some alternators will have a transverse bolt that allows you to move the alternator fore-and-aft in the bracket to adjust belt tension. If not, you may need to use a cheater to keep the alternator in place and take slack out of the belt (an assistant can help here) as you tighten the mounting bolts.
What should I do when I need to replace my alternator?
As you do, use tape to label the wires so you know where they go when it’s time to install the new alternator. Loosen and remove the alternator. If you have a V-belt, the alternator must first be loosened before the V belt can be removed as the alternator provides belt tension.
What should be the deflection between the drive belt and alternator?
Vehicles with a manual tensioner or the belt tightens with the alternator, there should about ½ inch of deflection in the belt between the pulleys with the greatest distance between them. Once the alternator, drive belt, and electrical connections are reinstalled, scan the work area and make sure nothing has been overlooked.