Q: How to inspect and adjust drive belts in an engine?
A: At the front of the engine are the drive belts, also known as V-belts and which are very significant for the overall engine operation and accessories. These belts would tend to go bad after a while and should be inspected and adjusted occasionally to avoid serious damage to the engine. The number of belts used will depend on those accessories like alternator, power steering pump, water pump, and air conditioning compressor that have been installed. To inspect them switch off the engine and locate them at the front of the engine. Any cracks, separations, frays or glaze on both sides of each belt should be checked. Also, examine pulleys for nicks, cracks, distortion, or corrosion. The tension of each belt can be checked by pressing it approximately halfway in between the two pulleys. If one has to adjust them then he or she should do it by moving the accessory that runs with it on a bracket. Normally there is an adjusting bolt and a pivot bolt for each component which must be loosened in order for it to move. By moving this component away from or towards the motor respectively; you either loosen or tighten up this belt respectively after loosening its bolts. Be careful when using a pry bar to move an accessory around. To replace one of these belts follow all adjustment procedures previously mentioned but slip off past the old belt from its pulley before removing it completely. It is advisable that all belts must be replaced simultaneously. When you buy new belts take your old ones with you so that you can compare them directly in terms of length width design etc.