Do you have to tighten serpentine belt?
Most serpentine belts have an auto-tensioner that automatically keeps the proper tension on the belt. If the serpentine belt is too loose, your alternator will not properly charge your battery and your accessories may not work properly. To correct the problem, tighten your belt.
How do you adjust the tension on a serpentine belt?
Slowly rotate the tensioner clockwise, allowing it to tighten the belt. Check the belt to see if it has more tension in it or not. Often, the spring inside the tensioner will stick and the tensioner will need to be “reset” to properly adjust.
How do you tighten the belt on a generator?
For tightening the belt, move the generator away from the engine by a hammer handle or similar tool. Loosen the screws on the pivot section and pull the belt in. Check the tension and if it is right, bolt the screws back to pivot. To loosen the belt, move the generator towards the engine by the hammer handle.
What happens if a serpentine belt is too loose?
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. If the serpentine belt is too loose, your alternator will not properly charge your battery and your accessories may not work properly.
What to do if your belt tension is too tight?
Do a secondary check of the belt tension. To do this, turn on the vehicle and examine the belt in motion. Listen specifically for whining coming from the alternator. If you notice any whine or “pulsing” sound from the alternator, your belt tension is too tight and will damage the alternator.
Slowly rotate the tensioner clockwise, allowing it to tighten the belt. Check the belt to see if it has more tension in it or not. Often, the spring inside the tensioner will stick and the tensioner will need to be “reset” to properly adjust.
How do you check a serpentine car belt?
Check the tension of the belt periodically. To do this, grab any area of the belt that is between two pulleys with your fingers. There should be approximately 1/4 inch play in the belt for most vehicles. Do a secondary check of the belt tension. To do this, turn on the vehicle and examine the belt in motion.
Do a secondary check of the belt tension. To do this, turn on the vehicle and examine the belt in motion. Listen specifically for whining coming from the alternator. If you notice any whine or “pulsing” sound from the alternator, your belt tension is too tight and will damage the alternator.
What happens if your serpentine belt is too loose?
If the serpentine belt is too loose, your alternator will not properly charge your battery and your accessories may not work properly. To correct the problem, tighten your belt.