How a Battery Functions

Drive Belt Inspection Overview

Drive belts with V-shaped or multiple-ribbed sections are commonly used to drive the AC generator (ACG), the air conditioning compressor, and the power steering pump, etc. In this, these belts are tensioned across the gap between the relevant unit and the corresponding crankshaft pulley. If the amount of tension in such a belt is too high, it can result in a loss of engine power, in bending of the rotating shaft or crankshaft, in damage to the pulley, or in a number of other problems. On the other hand, insufficient tension to its own distinctive set of problems, such as slipping of the drive belt, making it difficult to ensure that individual units rotate at their intended speeds. It is crucial, therefore, that belt tension be inspected periodically and adjusted to the correct level in accordance to the maintenance schedule in shop manual.

The belt tension gauge is a tool which aids this procedure by allowing belt tension to be measured accurately.

Drive Belt Appearance

Belt problems are easily identified either by visual inspection for cracks, splits, glazing, or oil soakage, or by listening for screeching due to slippage.

Drive Belt Tension Measurement

As stated earlier, it is crucial that belt tension should be adjusted to the correct level in order to ensure that each unit rotates at the rated speed. Two distinct methods may be used in the inspection of belt tension.

Deflection Method

Apply the designated force to the belt and measure the deflection between the unit’s pulley and the crankshaft pulley. For more relevant details, refer to the shop manual for the assigned vehicle.

Belt Tension Gauge Method

In addition to the following section of this article, read also the instructions provided by the manufacturer of the belt tension gauge which you have been assigned. Note that the various operations may differ with respect to vehicle model. Also refer to the relevant sections in the assigned shop manual.

How To Use a Belt Tension Gauge

1. Use the reset knob to move the gauge needle back to the RESET area.
2. Grasp the handle, grip tightly, and make a clearance between the hook and the hook base.
3. Position the gauge as specified in shop manual, and set it squarely against the belt. Place the belt between the gauge’s hook and hook base.
4. Slowly release the grip. The belt tension will be shown on the gauge in kg (N).
5. Grasp the handle, grip tightly again, and remove the gauge from the belt. The gauge pointer will remain in position, even when the grip is pushed in again.
6. Read the gauge and reset the needle.
7. Repeat the above procedure to double-check the measurement.

NOTE:

• Do not twist the gauge or belt while the gauge is being removed
• If there is no space to use the belt tension gauge in the vicinity of the driving belt, a remote cable should be used: Remove the handle from the gauge and connect the remote cable between the gauge and the handle.