On Mon, 27 Jan 2014 07:39:26 -0700, RobertMacy wrote:

On Mon, 27 Jan 2014 07:25:09 -0700, Lab Lover wrote:

...snip...
One last word of caution, when you do this, resist the temptation to
over-tension the drive belt for the alternator. Too much tension and
you will
destroy the bearings in the alternator in very short order.

Do you know how to properly tension the belt?

Thank you for your reply.

No, I asked around and was told 'no idea, mainly by the mechanics sense'
which doesn't sound very repeatable. Knowing German design, there must be
some way to do it properly. I just assumed about 1 inch deflection out in
the middle somewhere would be ok. There are THREE belts between that
alternator belt and the outside world! and the tension on one of them is
so strong you could bounce a quarter into the next county off it.

Belt tension is one of those universal things. 1 inch deflection in all the
belts would be desirable.

If things start squealing, you can make them tighter. I would take the
opportunity to inspect and possibly replace your belts. Buy the more expensive,
higher quality Goodyear brand belts if you can. There is a big difference
between brands.

Also, use a plastic scrubbing pad to clean your pulley surfaces if possible.
Just be sure you get all the residue out of the pulley after cleaning.

When are you going to do this deed?