Belt Tension Gauge

[Bodgit-fixit-run]

I'm looking at investing in a belt tension gauge. Would like a universal one as I work on various vehicles for da kids etc.

However I'm not really sure how they work or how reliable they might be.

Any information would be helpful. Here is one example but how does it work?

example

[Bodgit-fixit-run]

I'm looking at investing in a belt tension gauge. Would like a universal one as I work on various vehicles for da kids etc.

However I'm not really sure how they work or how reliable they might be.

Any information would be helpful. Here is one example but how does it work?

example

Ok folks I'm assuming here several possibilities.

1/ These things are so crap that no one on the forum uses them.

2/ There is no point using them cos the timing belt is pre tensioned and the serpentine belt doesn't really need it.

3/ You're just ignoring me. :( :( :( :(

[Boro Sera]

I'm puzzled as to why you think you'd need one .

Never used one myself, never needed it despite changing many belts !

[Bodgit-fixit-run]

I also have changed several belts in the past and they always seemed to work on the principle of movement distance. Now they seem to be recommending differing measurements like pounds or newtons etc. I often worry about getting tensions right particularly on cam belts not so much ancillary belts as they tend not to cause significant damage if they break or slip. I know many cam belts now can be pre tension ed but on some older cars they aren't.

Beside which I'm a bloke and quite like boys toys.

[bothwell_buyer]

I also have changed several belts in the past and they always seemed to work on the principle of movement distance. Now they seem to be recommending differing measurements like pounds or newtons etc. I often worry about getting tensions right particularly on cam belts not so much ancillary belts as they tend not to cause significant damage if they break or slip. I know many cam belts now can be pre tension ed but on some older cars they aren't.

Beside which I'm a bloke and quite like boys toys.

Try marks n spencer - they have a selection of mens belts.

Adjustable trusses are another thing - I mean - how do you set up the tension on these things?? :wacko:

And what Nm do I use for my stocking suspenders?

I've tried using a micrometer but it was too small :shutit:

[anchorman]

It works by measuring the deflection after tensioning. I have never used one as it comes with experience. I usually turn the belt so it is under load then twist it on the free side (before the cam and on the longest stretch. If you can turn it through 90 degrees and it feels "springy" you are about right. A loose belt will vibrate and rattle on idle. A tight one will whine. After fitting and tensioning its a good idea to turn the engine a couple of times by hand to make sure;

it doesn't catch any of the valves

it doesn't settle too much (re-check the tension before starting).

Most modern cars have serpentine drive belts for the auxiliaries. These are usually spring loaded and don't require much tension as you will find they are configured in such a way that the belt wraps around a high proportion of each pulley (usually at least 180 degrees).

For these reasons I wouldn't bother but if you feel the need to embelish your snap on tool chest - fill yer boots mate!!! It can't do any harm.

[Bodgit-fixit-run]

I also have changed several belts in the past and they always seemed to work on the principle of movement distance. Now they seem to be recommending differing measurements like pounds or newtons etc. I often worry about getting tensions right particularly on cam belts not so much ancillary belts as they tend not to cause significant damage if they break or slip. I know many cam belts now can be pre tension ed but on some older cars they aren't.

Beside which I'm a bloke and quite like boys toys.

Try marks n spencer - they have a selection of mens belts.

Adjustable trusses are another thing - I mean - how do you set up the tension on these things?? :wacko:

And what Nm do I use for my stocking suspenders?

I've tried using a micrometer but it was too small :!Removed!:

Now now! you boasting again? why was it too small for a micrometer? :P :P