1988 Mazda RX-7 Logo
Posted on Jun 27, 2012

Tensioner pulley stuck

I can not get the tensioner adjustment screws to move the slide on the pulley...trying to change belts and can't loosen the tensioner pulley. any suggestions?

1 Answer

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  • Contributor 25 Answers
  • Posted on Jun 27, 2012
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These screws are always corroded to the point that all the spray rust remover will not fix. Replacing the whole tensioner is usually the only solution

3 Related Answers

Anonymous

  • 1498 Answers
  • Posted on Dec 14, 2008

SOURCE: Serpentine Belt

Hi triple b,

The tensioner is loosened with a slow application of force. No prybar necessary.

  • Get a 14mm or 9/16" socket and a long handled ratchet or breaker bar.
  • Get the belt around all the pulleys except the A/C compressor or Alternator.
  • The tensioner pulley is on a spring loaded arm. Get your socket on the center nut of this pulley.
  • Slowly pull the ratchet toward the center of the engine. The pulley will pivot on the arm allowing you to get the belt on the final pulley.
  • Slowly release the tension.
  • You're done
Mike

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Jerry

  • 27 Answers
  • Posted on Jul 14, 2009

SOURCE: Changing a 1991 Mazda Protege Serpentine Belt

You've got to loosen the mounting bolt first, which is located behind the pulley itself. Rotate the pulley until the large opening allows access to the bolt, then use a socket with a narrow head to turn the bolt, just until it starts to turn freely.
Then there are two locknuts on the adjuster; one right near the mounting bolt and one underneath towards the middle of the pump. Loosen both of those, and then *finally* you'll be able to turn the adjusting bolt that faces the front end of the car on the end of the adjuster arm. It's a long bolt; just keep turning that thing until the belt loosens enough to come off the pulley.
Best of luck!

Anonymous

  • 7353 Answers
  • Posted on Dec 13, 2010

SOURCE: In replacing timing belt for

the tensioner must be compressed and then held in the compressed position by a small pin, (maybe use a small allen wrench, its got to be strong) then bolt it on. Once you are sure all of the marks are lined up with tension pushing on the belt tensioner pulley, then pull out the pin, an dthe belt will be tensioned. There is no special tool. Be careful and compress the tensioner with a vice, or large pliers,but very slowly. be sire there is no slop in the tensioner pulley pivot, if there is, replace it.

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How to change altenater belt on 87' cabi


INSPECTION

Inspect the belts for signs of glazing or cracking. A glazed belt will be perfectly smooth from slippage, while a good belt will have a slight texture of fabric visible. Cracks will usually start at the inner edge of the belt and run outward. All worn or damaged drive belts should be replaced immediately. It is always best to replace all drive belts at one time, as a preventive maintenance measure, during this service operation.


CHECKING TENSION AND ADJUSTMENT

See Figure 1
The belt tension on most driven components is adjusted by moving the component (alternator, power steering pump etc.) within the range of a slotted bracket. Some brackets (toothed) use a rack and pinion mechanism which moves the alternator side-to-side to adjust the belt tension. With this configuration, no prying tools are required. On Quantum (except 5 cylinder) and Fox models, the air conditioner compressor drive belts are adjusted by varying the number of discs (shims) between the halves of the crankshaft pulley. Before adjusting the belt tension on any engine, look at the mounting and determine what kind of bracket is used.
To check belt tension, push in on the drive belt about midway between the crankshaft pulley and the driven component. If the belt is less than 39.4 in. (1m) long, it should deflect between 0.80-0.120 in. (2-5mm). For longer belts, it should deflect between 0.40-0.060 in. (10-15mm). Belt size is usually printed on the back side of the belt. If it can't be read, it's probably time to replace it.


0900c1528026638b.jpg enlarge_icon.gifenlarge_tooltip.gif

Fig. Fig. 1: To check belt tension, push in on the drive belt about midway between the crankshaft pulley and the driven component
Slotted Brackets
See Figures 2, 3 and 4

  1. Loosen the adjustment nut/bolt in the slotted bracket. Slightly loosen the pivot bolt.
  2. Pull (don't pry) the component outward to increase tension. Push inward to reduce tension. Tighten the adjusting nut/bolt and the pivot bolt.



0900c1528026638c.jpg enlarge_icon.gifenlarge_tooltip.gif

Fig. Fig. 2: Alternator mounting with slotted brackets

  1. Components, such as the power steering pump and some air conditioner compressors, may be mounted with a double slotted adjusting bracket using a threaded bolt and locknut to adjust and maintain tension. Loosen the locknut(s) and slightly loosen the bolt(s) in the slotted groove(s). Turn the threaded adjustment bolt(s) in or out to gain correct tension. Tighten locknut(s) and slotted bracket bolt(s).
  2. Recheck the drive belt tension, readjust if necessary.



0900c1528026638d.jpg enlarge_icon.gifenlarge_tooltip.gif

Fig. Fig. 3: Some components use a double slotted adjusting bracket with a threaded bolt and locknut to adjust and maintain tension. Loosen the locknut (shown) before adjusting the tension bolt


0900c1528026638e.jpg enlarge_icon.gifenlarge_tooltip.gif

Fig. Fig. 4: An extension is helpful when adjusting the tension bolt. Be sure to loosen the nut/bolt on the rear slotted bracket first
Toothed Brackets
See Figures 5 and 6

  1. Loosen the tension bolt and the alternator pivot bolt. These bolts should be loosened until the alternator swings freely under its own weight.



0900c1528026638f.jpg enlarge_icon.gifenlarge_tooltip.gif

Fig. Fig. 5: Loosen the tension bolt (shown) and the alternator pivot bolt until the alternator swings freely under its own weight

  1. Adjust the V-belt by turning the nut on the tension bolt while checking the belt deflection with your thumb.
  2. Once the proper tension is achieved, tighten the tension bolt to 26 ft. lbs. (35 Nm). Tighten the pivot bolt to 15 ft. lbs. (20 Nm).
  3. Recheck the drive belt tension, readjust if necessary.



0900c15280266390.jpg enlarge_icon.gifenlarge_tooltip.gif

Fig. Fig. 6: Adjust the V-belt by turning the nut on the tension bolt
Split Pulley
See Figure 7
On Quantum (except 5 cylinder) and Fox models, the air conditioner compressor drive belts are adjusted by varying the number of discs (shims) between the halves of the crankshaft pulley.

  1. Remove the nuts/bolts securing the tensioner plate and crankshaft pulley halves.
  2. Add or remove the amount of spacer discs between the pulley halves until the belt tension is correct.



0900c15280266391.jpg enlarge_icon.gifenlarge_tooltip.gif

Fig. Fig. 7: Belt adjusting shims on Quantum (except 5 cylinder) and Fox models. Extra shims are stored behind the tensioner plate on Fox and turbo diesel Quantums (shown)
If there are any shims left over, do not throw them away. On Fox and turbo diesel Quantum models, store the extra shims in front of the split pulley (behind the tensioner plate). On Quantums with 4 cylinder gas engines, store the extra shims behind the split pulley (in front of the crankshaft hub).

  1. Secure the pulley halves. Torque the pulley nuts or bolts to 15 ft. lbs. (20 Nm).


REMOVAL & INSTALLATION

If a belt must be replaced, the driven unit must be loosened and moved to its extreme loosest position (usually by moving it toward the center of the motor). After removing the old belt, check the pulleys for dirt or built-up material which could affect belt contact. Carefully install the new belt, it may appear to be just a little too small to fit over the pulley flanges. Fit the belt over the largest pulley (usually the crankshaft pulley at the bottom center of the motor) first, then work on the smaller one(s). Gentle pressure in the direction of rotation is helpful. Some belts run around a third or idler pulley, which acts as an additional pivot in the belt's path. It may be possible to loosen the idler pulley as well as the main component, making your job much easier. Depending on which belt(s) you are changing, it may be necessary to loosen or remove other interfering belts to get at the one(s) you want. Some models have a front engine mount installed through the air conditioner compressor belt circle. Support the engine and remove the mount prior to belt removal and installation.
When buying replacement belts, remember that the fit is critical according to the length of the belt, the width of the belt, the depth of the belt and the angle or profile of the V shape (always match up old belt with new belt if possible). The belt shape should exactly match the shape of the pulley; belts that are not an exact match can cause noise, slippage and premature failure.
After the new belt is installed, adjust it for proper tension. This is sometimes a three or four-handed job; you may find an assistant helpful. Make sure that all the bolts you loosened are retightened and that any other loosened belts also have the correct tension. A new belt can be expected to stretch a bit after installation so be prepared to re-adjust your new belt.
After installing a new belt, run the engine for about 5 minutes and then recheck the belt tension.

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It appears that your car is equipped with multiple v-belts, rather than a serpentine belt so there most likely aren't tensioner pullies. Here is some general info that may help.

Alternator To adjust the tension of the alternator drive belt on older models, loosen the pivot and mounting bolts on the alternator. Using a wooden hammer handle, or a broomstick as a prying device, move the alternator one way or the other until the proper tension is achieved. Do not use a screwdriver or any other metal device such as a pry bar, as a lever. Newer models use a tension adjusting bolt. Loosen the pivot bolt and the locking bolt, then turn the tension adjusting bolt until proper tension is achieved. Tighten the bolts securely, run the engine about minute, stop the engine then recheck the belt tension. Air Conditioning Compressor A/C compressor (always use caution when working near the A/C compressor to avoid damaging the refrigerant lines) belt tension can be adjusted by turning the tension adjusting bolt which is located on the compressor tensioner bracket. Turn the bolt clockwise to tighten the belt and counterclockwise to loosen it. Air Pump To adjust the tension of the air pump drive belt, loosen the adjusting lever bolt and the pivot bolt. Move the pump in or out until the desired tension is reached. NOTE: The tension should be checked between the air pump and the crankshaft pulley on cars without air conditioning. On cars with A/C the tension should be checked between the compressor and the crankshaft pulley. Power Steering Pump Tension on the power steering belt is adjusted by means of an idler pulley (some models may use just a lower adjusting bracket setup, similar to the alternator adjustment service procedure). Loosen the lock bolt and turn the adjusting bolt on the idler pulley until the desired tension is felt, then tighten the lock bolt.
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A/C Compressor Belt
  1. Remove the alternator/power steering and water pump drive belt to gain access to the air conditioning belt.

  2. Loosen the tensioner pulley locknut, then turn the adjusting screw to raise or lower the tensioner pulley assembly. Remove the belt.

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  1. Install the belt.

  2. To adjust the belt, loosen the tensioner pulley nut and adjust the belt tension by tightening the adjusting screw. Tighten the pulley nut to 40 ft. lbs. (54 Nm) after adjustment.

  3. Install the alternator/power steering and water pump drive belt and adjust.

  4. Start the engine and check for proper belt alignment and any abnormal noise.

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REMOVAL & INSTALLATION of timing belt: Fig. 1: View of the timing belt cover 91163p64.gif
Fig. 2: Loosen then timing belt tensioner using a ratchet and short socket 91163p65.gif
Fig. 3: Matchmark the direction of rotation of the timing belt 91163p67.gif
Fig. 4: Once loose, pull the belt off the camshaft pulley 91163p71.gif
  1. Disconnect the negative battery cable.
  2. Turn the crankshaft to align the timing belt matchmarks and set cylinder No. 1 to Top Dead Center (TDC) on the compression stroke. Once in this position, the engine must NOT be turned or disturbed.
  3. Remove all necessary components to gain access to the cylinder head and timing belt covers.
  4. Remove the cylinder head and timing belt covers.
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  10. Remove the timing belt. Do not crimp or bend the belt; protect it from contact with oil or coolant. Slide the belt off the pulleys.
  11. If defective, remove the belt tensioners by performing the following:
    1. Remove the springs from the balancer belt and the timing belt tensioners.
    2. Remove the adjusting nut.
    3. Remove the bolt from the balancer belt adjuster lever, then remove the lever and the tensioner pulley.
    4. Remove the lockbolt from the timing belt tensioner lever, then remove the tensioner pulley and lever from the engine.
  12. This is an excellent time to check or replace the water pump. Even if the timing belt is only being replaced as part of a good maintenance schedule, consider replacing the pump at the same time. To install:
  13. If the water pump is to be replaced, install a new O-ring and make certain it is properly seated. Install the water pump and retaining bolts. Tighten the mounting bolts to 106 inch lbs. (12 Nm).
  14. If the tensioners were removed, perform the following to install them:
    1. Install the timing belt tensioner lever and tensioner pulley. NOTE: The tensioner lever must be properly positioned on its pivot pin located on the oil pump. Be sure that the timing belt lever and tensioner moves freely and does not bind.
    2. Install the lockbolt to the timing belt tensioner, do not tighten the lockbolt at this time.
    3. Install the balancer belt pulley and adjuster lever.
    4. Install the adjusting nut and the bolt to the balancer belt adjuster lever. Do not tighten the adjuster nut or bolt at this time. NOTE: Be sure that the balancer lever and tensioner moves freely and does not bind.
    5. Install the springs to the tensioners.
    6. Move the timing belt tensioner its full deflection and tighten the lockbolt.
    7. Move the balancer its full deflection and tighten the adjusting nut.
  15. The crankshaft timing pointer must be perfectly aligned with the white mark on the flywheel or flex-plate; the camshaft pulley must be aligned so that the word UP is at the top of the pulley and the marks on the edge of the pulley are aligned with the surfaces of the head.
  16. Install the timing belt over the pulleys and tensioners.
  17. Loosen the bolt used to lock the timing belt tensioner. Loosen, then tighten the timing belt adjusting nut.
  18. Turn the crankshaft counterclockwise until the cam pulley has moved 3 teeth; this creates tension on the timing belt. Loosen, then tighten the adjusting nut and tighten it to 33 ft. lbs. (45 Nm). Tighten the bolt used to lock the timing belt tensioner.
  19. Realign the timing belt marks, then install the balancer belt drive sprocket on the crankshaft.
  20. Align the front balancer pulley; the face of the front timing balancer pulley has a mark, which must be aligned with the notch on the oil pump body. This pulley is the one at 10 o'clock to the crank pulley when viewed from the pulley end.
  21. Align the rear timing balancer pulley (2 o'clock from the crank pulley) using a 6 x 100mm bolt or rod. Mark the bolt or rod at a point 2.9 in. (74mm) from the end. Remove the bolt from the maintenance hole on the side of the block; insert the bolt or rod into the hole. Align the 2.9 in. (74mm) mark with the face of the hole. This pin will hold the shaft in place during installation.
  22. Install the balancer belt. Once the belts are in place, be sure that all the engine alignment marks are still correct. If not, remove the belts, realign the engine and reinstall the belts. Once the belts are properly installed, slowly loosen the adjusting nut, allowing the tensioner to move against the belt. Remove the pin from the maintenance hole and reinstall the bolt and washer.
  23. Turn the crankshaft 1 full turn, then tighten the adjuster nut to 33 ft. lbs. (45 Nm). Remove the bolt used to lock the timing belt tensioner.
  24. Install the lower cover, ensuring the rubber seals are in place. Install a new seal around the adjusting nut, DO NOT loosen the adjusting nut.
  25. Install the key on the crankshaft and install the crankshaft pulley. Apply oil to the bolt threads and tighten it to 181 ft. lbs. (250 Nm).
  26. Install the upper timing belt cover and all applicable components. When installing the side engine mount, tighten the bolt and nut attaching the mount to the engine to 40 ft. lbs. (55 Nm) and the through-bolt and nut to 47 ft. lbs. (65 Nm).
  27. Connect the negative battery cable.
---
For water pump removal and installation contact me:

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How do i change belt on mitubishi mirage 98

( BEFORE ADJUSTING THE ALTERNATOR BELT DISCONNECT THE NEGATIVE BATTERY CABLE OR YOU MIGHT BLOW AN EXPENSIVE HIDDEN FUSE)to change the alternator belt, you have to loosen the lower mount bolt on the alternator, loosen block shaped bolt that the long adjuster bolt goes through, and loosen the belt by turning the long adjuster bolt, take off the belt. to adjust the power steering belt, there is a long adjuster bolt that moves a tensioner pulley, first you have to loosen the nut that holds the pulley in place , now the pulley can be moved with the adjuster bolt.
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I am unable to loosen the tension pulley on a 93 jeep cherokee.I have loosened the bolts but it will not slide to allow belt to fit.

I'm going to assume you have either a four cyl or an inline 6cyl...The tension is provided at the power steering pump. Loosen the fasteners and look underneath. There is a "jack bolt" that is just under the pump that faces the left fender. Screwing it in or out moves the pump and adjusts belt tension.
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first of all you don't have to loosen the pulley,this will no solve the problem,well you already loosen the adjuster,good,bot thing you have not done i will tell you now,on the power steering pump where the belt pass there is also a bolt that hold it ,you must loosen that also,then after you will see the pump moving on the two position that means you will see the belt loosen on 1 position an d the position it will tight the belt,try that man.............
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