Drive Belt: Testing and Inspection

1. INSPECT DRIVE BELT'S INSTALLATION CONDITION
Check that the drive belt fits properly in the ribbed grooves.




2. INSPECT DRIVE BELT

HINT: A belt tensioner is used, so checking the belt tension is not necessary.

a. Visually check the drive belt for excessive wear, frayed cords, etc.
If necessary, replace the drive belt.





HINT:
- Cracks on the rib side of a drive belt are considered acceptable. If the drive belt has chunks missing from the ribs, it should be replaced.
- The drive belt tension can be released by turning the belt tensioner clockwise.

Fig. 50 Serpentine Belt Tensioner:

3. INSPECT DRIVE BELT TENSION
Check that the arrow mark on the belt tensioner falls within area "A" of the scale.
If it is out side area "A", replace the drive belt.

HINT: When a new belt is installed, it should lie within area B. If not, the drive belt is not correct.

b. Check the belt tensioner operation.




- Check that the belt tensioner moves downward when the drive belt is pressed down at the points indicated in the illustration with approx. 98 N (10 kgf, 22.0 lbf) of force.




- Check the alignment of the belt tensioner pulley to make sure the drive belt will not slip off the pulley. If necessary, replace the belt tensioner.
- Check that the arrow mark on the belt tensioner tails within area A of the scale.
If it is outside area A, replace the drive belt.




- After installing a drive belt, check that it fits properly in the ribbed grooves.
- Check by hand to confirm that the belt has not slipped out of the groove on the bottom of the pulley.