How Does a Serpentine Tensioner Work?

The serpentine tensioner guides a belt that is used to drive multiple car components.

Mechanical belts refer to looped, flexible material used to link two or more shafts, or used as a source of motion to send or transmit power. Serpentine tensioners are used to drive multiple car components.

Serpentine Belt

A serpentine belt refers to one continuous belt that drives numerous vehicle peripheral devices in an internal combustion engine, including the air pump, air conditioner compressor, water pump and alternator. The serpentine belt was originally manufactured by Dayco Products and was first used in the 1979 Ford mustang.

Tensioner

The serpentine belt is guided by a hydraulic or spring-loaded belt tensioner, which is comprised of a pulley, tension spring, pulley bearing, main body and swing arm. The serpentine tensioner, or called the serpentine belt tensioner, holds a specific amount of tension, often predetermined by a gauge, while the engine is running.

Problems

Serpentine tensioner belts can wear down or snap because of fatigue or age. A sudden engine motion, such as a jerk during start up, can also cause a serpentine tensioner to snap and need replacement.

References

• 2CarPros.com: How Serpentine Belt Tensioner Works
• "Car Science"; Richard Hammond; 2008

Resources

• "How to Repair Your Car"; Paul Brand; 2006