Guys

Just changing the belts on my FD, usually I tension them buy hand and guess, but since it's a new build I want to do it to spec.

I've read the FSM and I know the deflection tolerances but unless I'm missing something, the FSM doesn't state at what pressure needs to be applied to take the reading?

Usually it should state for example 4.4-5mm @ 15ftlb of pressure

But it don't say anything about the force? Am I overlooking something or maybe lm looking too much into it and just set it by feel?

 

FD belts are no different than any other car. Use common sense (not that common these days) and you wont have a problem.

 

Just in case someone else runs into this...

It's not listed in the scheduled maintenance section, but does show up in section C and section TD. For some reason, the TD section only shows the used belt deflection. The FSM defines a new belt as one that has been run less than 5 minutes. I interpret that to mean that you use the new spec when first installing the belt, then you run it in for 5 minutes and check it again, in accordance with the used specifications.

From the 94 FSM:
Drive belt deflection at 98N {10 kgf, 22lbf} mm {in}
Alternator and air pump: (new) 6.0 - 7.0 {0.24 - 0.27}; (used): 7.0 - 7.5 {0.28 - 0.29}; (limit) 9.0 {0.35}
P/S pump and A/C compressor: (new) 3.5 - 4.0 {0.14 - 0.15}; (used): 4.5 - 5.0 {0.18 - 0.19}; (limit) 6.0 {0.24}

TB

 

My rule of thumb has been to twist the belt 90 degrees on the longest run. If you can do that, it's just right.

Dale

 

I've used a Kricket belt tensioning gauge for decades. It's now called the Fits on your finger and can be easily used in very tight locations (ie the RX-7).

 

^That's pretty slick! What's the technique for using it?

Is there a spec in the shop manual on belt tension?

Dale

 

That looks like a handle tool to have around, will have to order one

Yeah Dale, there’s tension spec in the FSM.

 

You push the little plastic lever down place the tool on your index finger and press it against the middle of a belt, when it clicks pull it up and look at the reading. Simple, cheap, and easy to use. Great stocking stuffer.

 

Page C6 94 Workshop Manual