Is the AC compressor capable of breaking the serpentine belt?
Thank David. Hi there, yes, the air conditioning compressor is capable of breaking the serpentine belt a couple of ways. If the AC compressors seizes while operating, the shock load can snap the serpentine belt. If the AC clutch bearing seizes while the AC compressor is not operating, the belt can snap then as well.
What causes an alternator belt to keep breaking?
Thank Tim. Hi Paula. Thanks for contacting us today. 95% of the time, frequent alternator or serpentine belt breakage is caused by either faulty pulley’s or misaligned or un-properly adjusted belts. Belts that are not properly adjusted to tightness can also explain the smoke issue.
What should I do if my alternator does not work?
In these cases, your alternator would fail and your battery would not charge. If you have a bad alternator, look in the owner’s manual to see where the alternator fuse is in your car and check to see if it is blown. Alternators use the mechanical power of a belt and pulley to generate the electrical energy for the vehicle.
What causes the serpentine belt to keep breaking?
Thanks for contacting us today. 95% of the time, frequent alternator or serpentine belt breakage is caused by either faulty pulley’s or misaligned or un-properly adjusted belts. Belts that are not properly adjusted to tightness can also explain the smoke issue.
Thank David. Hi there, yes, the air conditioning compressor is capable of breaking the serpentine belt a couple of ways. If the AC compressors seizes while operating, the shock load can snap the serpentine belt. If the AC clutch bearing seizes while the AC compressor is not operating, the belt can snap then as well.
Can a V-belt be replaced with a serpentine belt?
Older vehicles use v-belts, which typically only drive the AC compressor. Modern vehicles use serpentine belts to drive all of the engine accessories including the drive belt. Over time, belts crack and deteriorate. Replacing the belt at the first sign of wear ensures it won’t break, leaving you without AC.
Where do I find the serpentine belt tensioner?
Step 1: Locate the serpentine belt tensioner. If you have a difficult time finding the tensioner, consult the belt routing diagram. This can typically be found on a decal placed somewhere in the engine compartment or in the vehicle repair manual. Step 2: Rotate the tensioner.
What happens when a serpentine belt wears down?
As a serpentine belt gets older and wears down, the rubber parts may peel off, causing the belt to crack, fray, or slip. When these things occur, it may become misaligned or contaminated with fluid.
Older vehicles use v-belts, which typically only drive the AC compressor. Modern vehicles use serpentine belts to drive all of the engine accessories including the drive belt. Over time, belts crack and deteriorate. Replacing the belt at the first sign of wear ensures it won’t break, leaving you without AC.
What happens if you have a bad serpentine belt?
The serpentine belt allows the power steering system to function properly. Power steering is what gives drivers the ability to smoothly steering their vehicle without needing to apply too much pressure. But if you have a bad serpentine belt, then it will be harder to move the steering wheel to steer your vehicle.
What is the serpentine belt on a car made of?
Importance of Serpentine Belt Maintenance. The serpentine belt, also known as the drive belt, is made of rubber. It connects the AC, power steering, and alternator to the engine’s crankshaft.
Where does the AC belt go on a car?
The belt connects the AC compressor clutch to the engine crankshaft, which allows the compressor to be turned via the engine’s power when activated. As with most automotive belts, the AC belt will either be a V-belt or a serpentine.
Why does the AC clutch not meet the belt?
When the AC clutch doesn’t meet the belt correctly you’ll have similar symptoms to low refrigerant charge… warm air, revs dropping every 10 or 20 seconds, etc.. Here’s how to shim the AC clutch on an S60.
Why is my AC belt cracking and cracking?
The longer a belt has been in service, the more heat and wear it has been exposed to, which will eventually lead to dryness and cracking of the belt. An old belt will not grip properly and will actually be a lot more susceptible to breaking than a newer belt.