alt belts tension

[Nacho-RT74]

How do you get tensioned the alt belts ?

[mikepmcs]

By feel for the most part, not too tight and not too loose is my motto.
maybe a 1/2 to 3/4  inch reasonable play with a finger grip would do the job.  Don't want to strain the pulleys but don't want it to squeal.

v/r
Mike

[RogerDodger]

If you push on the belt midway between two pulleys and see how far it moves. If the pulleys are 7"-11" apart at the center of the pulleys then you should deflect it about 1/4". If the pulleys are 12"-16" apart then it should deflect about 1/2".

[Nacho-RT74]

ok but I mean.. HOW DO YOU DO ?

[mikepmcs]

Ok, if you are asking how to adjust, there are a couple bolts on the Alternator itself.  Look for the one that has a slide on it(like it would move up and down if loosened)
Release that one and then look for the one that keeps the alternator bolted to the motor or bracket.  Loosen that one a little and then loosen the one that slides, make your adjustment and then tighten them both.

v/r
Mike

[RogerDodger]

You can use a large screwdriver or a pry bar to hold the tension while you tighten the bolts.

[Nacho-RT74]

You can use a large screwdriver or a pry bar to hold the tension while you tighten the bolts.

that's exactly what I was asking... I use the jack bar to hold the tension againts the engine ( water pump housing ), but I was thinking was a wrong way. The problem is the bar meets with heater hose fittings when I'm making teh force and is easy to damage the hose or fittings. In fact the hose got damaged

[RogerDodger]

I see. Mine is a 318 and the water pump hoses aren't a problem. Maybe you can get some kind of a block in there to pry against. Be creative. You might be able to get it tight enough by pulling on the alternator with your hands. Maybe have someone tighten it while you hold it.

[hemihead]

#rd Gen Expert Heh?

[Nacho-RT74]