2. Correct tension of the drive belt will ensure its long and reliable operation. If the belt is too tight, the generator may wear out quickly.
3. The belt should be inspected regularly. If it is found to be too tight, worn, frayed or cracked, it should be replaced. We recommend that you always have a spare alternator drive belt in your vehicle, just in case.
4. To remove the old belt, loosen the generator mounting bolts and nuts enough to allow the generator to be turned toward the engine. This will relieve tension on the belt, which can now be removed from the pulleys. Install a new belt, take up any slack by turning the alternator back into place, and secure the alternator with bolts, without tightening them all the way. Please note that on models with power steering, you will first have to remove the power steering pump drive belt before removing the alternator belt (see chapter 8, section 14). Remember to install it back in place after installing the alternator drive belt.
5. There are special devices for checking belt tension, but you can do without them. The belt is considered to be properly tensioned if, when pressed with your thumb at the midpoint of its longest run, the deflection is 13 mm. Adjust the position of the generator to achieve the desired tension and tighten the generator bolts. When turning the generator, the load should be applied to its support bracket and under no circumstances to the free end of the generator, as this may lead to serious internal damage.
6. After installing the new belt, start the engine and after 5 minutes check the belt tension again and adjust it if necessary, as the belt may stretch slightly.
The article was published on the website [OPELBOOK]
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