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How Does it Work /
Multi
Rib Belt
How a Serpentine Belt Tensioner Works?
A multi rib belt tensioner is designed to automatically hold a predetermined amount of tension on a
drive belt while the engine is in
operation. If the drive belt is loose the tensioner has failed or the wrong size
belt has been installed. The tensioner should be
about half way through its travel to hold proper
tension, most have a gauge stamped on them to determine
belt stretch for replacement On rare occasions an
engine can buck or
jerk at start up and can suddenly cause a belt to jump out of place. Other
problems can occur if the belt itself snaps this can be due to fatigue of the
belt. The most common reason for the belt to snap is age
coupled with the natural wear and tear of the belt. Before belt tensioners there
was a simple adjustment bolt that was used to set
the tension on the belt. The disadvantage to this set up is once the belt
stretches slightly it would have to be re-adjusted. If re-adjustment is not
performed the belt can create a loud screeching noise. A belt tensioner consists
of a main body, swing arm, tension spring, pulley and
pulley bearing.
Drive Belt Tensioner (appearance will vary)
The drive belt or multi ribbed belt is an essential component of your vehicle.
The primary belt function is to supply power to the
steering system,
water pump,
air pump (if equipped)
air conditioner and
alternator. This belt is connected to
the drive pulley of the
engine to supply power. If the belt fails it will almost
always render your vehicle inoperable until the
drive belt is replaced. Typically
most people are able to replace a serpentine belt themselves with basic automotive
tools. When replacing the belt draw a diagram of the belt routing before
you start to avoid confusion. If you have removed the drive belt and need the
belt routing you can look it up on a
belt routing diagram.
Typical Multi Rib Belt
There are two different types of belts primarily; the first is a serpentine
belt which tends to cross the motor several times to operate additional
components. There are several names that are used to describe a serpentine belt,
including Poly-V, Multi-Rib, and even a Micro-V Belt. However, all of these
terms mean the exact same thing and do not change the way the belt is routed, or the type of material the
belt is constructed from. A serpentine belt tends to have several V's in the belt
that act as better grip for the drive pulley and components of the drive belt system.
Replacing your car's multi rib belt is a relatively simple repair that can
be done in a few minutes with minor tools in most cases. Always wear protective
gloves and eyewear before you begin.
Change Multi Rib Belt Video
Maintenance
For regular maintenance lift the hood and do a complete visual inspection of
the belt. Be sure there is no fraying, cracking or any chunks missing. If it appears
that any of these conditions exist replace the belt with a new unit. Replacing the
belt before it fails is always advisable; it will prevent you from breaking down
on the roadside. The drive belt is generally a component that requires maintenance.
If you notice that you have to continuously change drive belts, you should have
all of your pulleys examined for excess debris lodged inside the pulley groves.
This condition will cause the belt to wear out prematurely.
How Does it Work
/ Multi
Rib Belt
Check Manufacturer Specific Belt
Tensioner Questions and Answers
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