Over tightened belt problems

Ensure alternator belt tension is tight enough to prevent slippage under load but not excessively stressing the belt or bearings.

How to adjust alternator belt my summer car

Use a 1/4″ rule or a belt tensioner for accurate reference

Do you hear squealing from under the hood when you turn the air conditioner on? Is the ‘Check Engine’ light illuminated? Common sense will tell you to inspect the belt for cracks and breaks.

But what if the belt is intact, and yet the symptoms above have persisted?

You can’t rule out the possibility that your belt is too tight or loose.

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Alternator belt tensioner

Modern vehicles have a serpentine belt that snakes through multiple pulleys to run the water pump, power steering pump, AC compressor, and alternator.

The serpentine belt is less likely to come loose because it runs around numerous pulleys, especially in comparison to a conventional V-belt.

However, to be on the safe side, manufacturers include an idler pulley that keeps the belt tight.

It has an internal spring that adjusts to compensate for the belt’s tautness (or lack thereof). The belt will slip once the idler pulley fails, producing squealing sound

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