Curiosii for ever!: Car repair manuals for everyone.

Belt Tension

Belt deflection under a ten pound push or pull should be between 1/4 to 5/16 inch. Measure deflection while applying tension to the accessory, then tighten mounting mounts to specification. Deflection on a new belt should be between 1/4 (6mm) to 1/2 (12mm); a belt is considered used after 15 minutes of engine operation, tension on a used belt should be 1/4 (6mm) and 5/16 (8mm) under a ten pound load.