Testing Belt Tensioner
 

Hello,

I was wondering if anyone had any experience with possible belt tension problems and troubleshooting them.

When I start the car, I can see the headlings and interior lights flashing very quickly almost in tne to the engine RPMs.

Also, the voltmeter "bounces" between 13-14 volts and when I come to a stoplight and release the clutch, the car's electrical systems "power down" to under the 13 volt mark.

When I look at the belt tensioner with the engine running it bounces back and forth. I tried to loosen and/or tighten the center 15mm bolt and the entire pulley moves and I cannot do either.

I was wondering if anyone can give me some good information as to if it is the belt tensioner or something else. The belt itself appears to be in good shape.

Thanks.

Nick
2002 SS

What you have going on with the meter might be normal, depending on how many power accessories you have running at the time. With the engine off, grab the alternator fan and try as hard as you can to spin it. The pulley shouldn't break free of the belt. If it does, the tensioner isn't holding tight. The tensioner pivots against the belt with spring tension, it's not something that you tighten. And with a wrench on it, it should take a bit of force to pivot it away from the belt. It bouncing a little is normal, but if it's floping, then the spring is worn out and it's time for a new tensioner assembly. Your engine has two different tensioners, so make sure you're looking at the right one. One is for the main drive belt, and the other is for the A/C drive belt.