Operation CHARM: Car repair manuals for everyone.

Drive Belt: Adjustments

NOTE Belt tension is maintained by the tensioner and is not adjustable.


Belt Tension Gage:




Serpentine Drive Belt:






1. Run engine, with no accessories on, until normal operating temperature is reached. Turn engine off and read belt tension using belt tension gauge J-23600-B or equivalent. Place gauge halfway between alternator and power steering pump.
2. Start engine, with accessories off, and allow system to stabilize for 15 seconds. Turn engine off. Using a 15 mm socket, apply clockwise force to tensioner pulley bolt. Release force and immediately take a tension reading without disturbing belt tensioner position.
3. Using a 15 mm socket, apply counterclockwise force to tensioner pulley bolt, raise pulley to eliminate all tension. Slowly lower pulley to belt and take a tension reading without disturbing belt tensioner position.
4. Average three readings. If average is not between 225 and 315 Nm (50-70 lbs) and belt is within tensioner's operating range, replace belt tensioner. Refer to Drive Belt Tensioner / Service and Repair.