Table of Contents
Do timing belts need to be tensioned?
Timing belt installation should be a snug fit, neither too tight nor too loose. The positive grip of the belt eliminates the need for high initial tension. Consequently, a belt, when installed with a snug fit (that is, not too taut) assures longer life, less bearing wear and quieter operation.
What happens if you over tension a timing belt?
If the timing belt is too tight, it could wear out the bearings in your engine and potentially cause your belt to snap.
How do you adjust timing tensioner?
Here are the basic steps to adjusting the timing belt tensioner:
- Remove the cover from the timing belt.
- Loosen the bolts that secure the tensioner using a wrench.
- Confirm that the tensioner has light contact with the timing belt.
- Adjust the belt with its proper alignments (see timing marks on cam, crank, sprockets)
What is a tensioner tool?
Responsible for removing your serpentine belt’s tensioner pulley, the tool works to position idler pulleys and reset belts to the correct amount of tension.
How much slack should a timing belt have?
If you can create more than 1/2″ of slack, then the timing belt needs to be tightened. If there is less than 1/4″ of slack, it’s too tight and needs to be loosened.
What are some potential problems if belt tension is too loose?
Improper Tension A belt that’s too loose on a pulley will cause slippage, which leads to heat build up from friction. This heat will damage your rubber belts and cause the belts to crack and break. A belt that’s too tight can add stress to your bearings and cause your motor to over amp, leading to motor failure.
What causes timing belt to be loose?
If the tensioner has no oil pressure, the belt will become loose and possibly disengage from the pulleys and/or break. If the camshafts don’t have enough oil pressure to operate properly, they will also lock up, causing the timing belt to break.
What happens if belt tension is too high?
If a belt is too tight in a system, it can add stress to your bearings. The added stress to bearings can result into over amperage of your motor and potential motor failure.