How can I replace the belt on my car?

How can I replace the belt on my car?

It is absolutely crucial that your new belt is the same size and style as the one on your vehicle currently. If it is not, you will not be able to operate your car until you get the proper belt. Step 1: Check part listings at an auto parts store.

Do you have to run the old belt with the new belt?

Since these belts need to fit exactly right, the new belt should be the same length and width as the original. The only difference should be general wear on the old belt. The best way to insure a perfect match is to compare part numbers. Run the new belt. You should use your routing diagram from above to make sure that the belt is run properly.

What happens if your car belt does not fit?

If the belt does not fit properly or is not installed correctly it could damage several important components of your car such as the water pump, alternator, etc. Start your car. If possible it is best to have a friend start your car while you watch the belt.

Is the auxiliary timing belt needed to be replaced?

Hi, auxiliary timing belt badly cracked and needed replacing. Part sent by online parts company was Dayco 6PK1070 , when I removed the damaged part it says Dayco 6PK1041LE. Have put the new belt on but have a concern over the different part part numbers and potential damage.

How do you tighten the belt on an alternator?

Loosen the nut and bolt, after which you will have to set the alternator against the belt. Now you need to tighten the slider bolt and the tensioner lock bolt. You even need to check the tension in the belt while tightening it. Tighten the bolt until there is about 1/2 inch of slack on the belt.

How to know if your alternator is working properly?

1 Check the drive belt or serpentine belt. Look for signs of wear or damage like cuts, shiny spots or missing chunks under the belt. 2 Also, check the belt tensioner for proper operation and damage. It should rotate freely. 3 Make sure the alternator is properly mounted. 4 Check the alternator for noises.

Why does my alternator belt not go down?

During the measurement of the belt slack, it the belt does not go down ½ inch, you will have to release tension off the tensioner bolt. A tighter belt can even be a result of the belt being smaller than what is required around the alternator.

How often should an alternator belt be replaced?

Manufacturers recommend the belt to be replaced every 40,000 to 50,000 miles. However, note that you need to get it replaced as soon as you encounter any problems mentioned above. Sometimes, frequent loosening of a belt is also the fault of the tensioner, which is when you need to get the tensioner replaced.

Is it possible to have multiple V-belts in a car?

It is the alternative of multiple v-belts in newer cars. The belt is a standard in modern vehicles. As a single belt supplies power to almost all engine accessories, multiple components will be affected if the belt loosens or gets damaged. However, it is easy to replace and you have to spend on only a single belt.

What happens if your belt breaks in your car?

If your belt breaks, you can experience drivability problems like a lack of power steering, no power brake assist, your battery won’t charge, or your engine could overheat. You should change the engine drive belt at the first sign of excessive wear, cracking, or fraying.

When to replace a belt tensioner in a car?

Press on the longest belt run between pulleys to make sure it is tight. You should only be able to manage about a half-inch of deflection. If you have more deflection than a half-inch to an inch, your belt tensioner is weak and needs to be replaced. Do so before you run your engine.

What happens if you dont replace your cam belt?

Replacing your cam belt is a vital part of your car’s maintenance schedule. Leave it to break, and you could cause untold damage to the rest of the car. If it fails, then the knock on effects can cause the engine’s pistons and valves to collide.

What happens when you change your drive belt?

Also, if your car has hydraulic power steering, you will lose the steering assist, as the power steering pump will be disabled. In addition, the alternator will stop supplying electric power that is needed to recharge the car battery and run the vehicle electric systems. Old vs new drive belt. See larger photo.

How much does it cost to replace a drive belt?

One of the symptoms of a loose drive belt is a loud squealing or screeching noise that lasts for a few seconds after the engine is started. Often, drive belts are replaced as a kit with the new tensioner and other hardware. Replacing the serpentine belt may cost from $75 to $250, depending on the car.

Can a timing belt be replaced with a timing chain?

The timing belt is commonly found in cars and SUVs with smaller displacement engines. When an engine has a larger bore and stroke, most automotive manufacturers utilize a timing chain system that replaces the rubber belt with a metal chain. Generally, timing chains last longer than timing belts, with some rated to last the lifetime of the car.

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