How to Check and Adjust Drive Belts

When performing scheduled maintenance on your vehicle, it's wise to check the drive belts and adjust them whenever necessary. Because proper operation is required to keep the alternator charged, worn or loose belts can leave you stranded on the side of the road. Learn to check and adjust your drive belts to help keep your car in optimum working condition.

Difficulty: Moderate

Instructions

1. Shut off the engine if the car is running. Remove the keys from the ignition, and place them in your pocket for safety. Allow the engine to cool.

2. Find the belt on the engine. You might find the belt on the front of the engine, depending on the model. Some models have a single serpentine drive belt, while others have more. Find the section of belt stretched the greatest distance between two pulleys.

3. Push down on the center of the belt section. It must have roughly ¼-inch to ½-inch of play. If it has more or less, the belt requires replacement or adjustment. If your vehicle has more than one belt, check all of them in the same fashion.

4. Pull the belt along the pulleys. It should tug slowly and with difficulty. Check the entire length of the belt for signs of wear. You can remove the belt from the pulleys for this task. Replace belts that are stretching, cracking or fraying.

5. Tighten belts if necessary. Their location and number will vary by engine model. Vehicles with self-adjusters don't have belts. To locate all of the belts, either consult the car's operating manual or follow the belt, and check the area surrounding the alternator. Some models have adjustment screws partially hidden by covers, so look carefully.

Tips & Warnings

• Before removing a drive belt, draw a detailed diagram. This ensures you'll wind it through the pulleys correctly.
• Always turn off the engine and remove the keys from the car when working on one. You could incur severe injury if you accidentally touch moving engine parts.

Who Can Help Sponsored