Checking V-Ribbed Belt Condition

PROCEDURE

1. V-ribbed belt tension is adjusted automatically. Check the belt condition periodically and replace the belt if any defects are found.

2. Drive belts, sometimes called V-belts or simply accessory belts, are located at the front of the engine and play an important role in the operation of the vehicle and its individual components. Due to material properties and operating conditions, drive belts wear out over time. Therefore, their condition should be checked periodically and belt tension adjusted to avoid serious engine damage.

3. Drive belts are used to drive the alternator, power steering pump, water pump and air conditioning compressor. Depending on the pulley arrangement, one belt may drive several components at once.

4. Switch off the engine and place the transmission in neutral. Raise the vehicle and support it on stands.

5. Remove the engine compartment undercover. Refer to Engine Compartment Undercover Removal and Installation.

6. Mark belt -1- with chalk in a clearly visible place.

7. From the underside of the engine, using a socket, turn the engine by the crankshaft pulley in the direction of rotation, i.e. to the right, until the chalk mark is visible. Inspect the belt section by section while turning.

Wear on the edges of the ribs of the multi-rib belt

Transverse cracks D on the back side of the belt and separation of ribs E of the multi-rib belt

Fraying of the side ribs F, cracks H and separation of the side ribs G

Separation of ribs J, cracks K

8. Using your fingers (and a flashlight if necessary), run your hand along the entire length of the belt, feeling for cracks and delamination. Also check for abrasion and glazed areas. The belt must be inspected on both sides, which requires twisting the belt to check the back side.

9. Check belt tension by pressing firmly on the belt with your thumb and determining the amount of deflection. Measure the deflection with a ruler. If the distance between pulley centers is 180 to 280 mm, the deflection should be 6 mm. If the distance between pulley centers is between 300 and 400 mm, the deflection should be 13 mm.

10. If one or more of the above damages are found, the V-ribbed belt must be replaced with a new one. Refer to Multi-Rib Belt Removal and Installation and V-Belt Removal and Installation.

11. Install the engine compartment side cover.