Operation CHARM: Car repair manuals for everyone.

Component Tests and General Diagnostics






Routine inspection reveals cracks in the belt ribs. The cracks do not impair the performance of the belt. The cracks are not a basis for belt replacement. However, if sections of the belt are missing, the belt should be replaced.

CAUTION: Do not use belt dressings to extend the drive belt life. The belt dressing will soften the belt and cause deterioration. Oil or grease contamination also causes drive belt deterioration.

A new drive belt allows the line on the belt tensioner gauge to be in the small range. As shown, a used belt is in the large area of the tensioner gauge.