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Alternator belt tensioning

Posted: Mon Dec 02, 2013 1:32 am
by hijimhere
2.5 TD 1996 Auto -- I am reading on another forum that alternator belts play be set at plus and minus 13mm (1/2 inch in old money so freeplay of 1 inch!) ? Is this right?

Re: Alternator belt tensioning

Posted: Mon Dec 02, 2013 10:38 am
by wonkanoby
sounds right its used as common to most belts as a guide though actual might vary a tiny bit

another is to twist it in centre and be sure you can turn 90 degrees

Re: Alternator belt tensioning

Posted: Mon Dec 02, 2013 11:12 am
by rita
It really depends on the amount of force you put on the belt, for a New belt and a force of 10KG on the middle top run between two pulleys it is recommended you should be looking at between 7 and 9mm.Personallly with these old bangers I would go for a deflection of the old 1/2"...

But it depends on the FORCE.

And may it go with you.

Re: Alternator belt tensioning

Posted: Mon Dec 02, 2013 9:45 pm
by hijimhere
I know most of the typical checks but plus and minus 13mm seems a bit generous -- thanks -- the force is with me lol

Re: Alternator belt tensioning

Posted: Tue Dec 03, 2013 11:55 am
by rita
hijimhere wrote:I know most of the typical checks but plus and minus 13mm seems a bit generous -- thanks -- the force is with me lol

Hi Jim, you just use the deflection of the belt with the force required, in other words press the belt down don't add on the lift.
Good luck.