B3000 Belt Squealing

[TimP]

Hi All.

I have a B3000 and recently noticed some squealing.

I am pretty sure it's coming from the belt(s).

Before I open up the hood (top and sides) I wanted to know if you have any tips/tricks for tightening the belts up?

I know it's possible I may need to replace the belt(s) if tightening them up doesn't solve the problem.

Thanks !

 

[flyerdan]

It should be pretty straight forward, just loosen the alternator and carefully pry on it, or use a belt tensioning tool to snug it up. I don't reef on them, running belts excessively tight causes them to wear faster, plus it's hard on the bearings in the alternator and water pump, and anything else driven by the belts.

 

[TimP]

Thanks for the help.
It was pretty easy, and I got it done pretty quick.
I hope I didn't make it too tight, but I think it's good.

 

[JWR]

Agree with flyerdan, there are ways to measure belt tightness but not worth the extra effort. Just getting it "snug" without "long lever prying" to do it should be fine. Especially if in doing that you took up some slack in the belt -- then all is well. I do not say it is a panacea, but spray cans of "belt dressing" are sold that sometimes help. Mostly in cases where the belt seemed plenty tight but is old and dry and low friction. That is in truth a good description of a belt that needs replaced, but belt dressing can help at times, like when don't have time or immediate availability for replacing the belt.

 

[TimP]

I only tightened up the alternator belt, but in retrospect, I think I should have tightened up the Compressor belt as well.

I can still hear an occasional squeal AND I saw it slipping when I opened up the hood.

Oh well.... time to break out the wrenches again.

 

[flyerdan]

It shouldn't take much, if you don't have the mfg. specs for belt tightness, just see how much play is in the center span now, and take about half of that out. Most call for about .250"-.500" deflection, depending on span.

 

[TimP]

Thanks for the info !

 

[zzvyb6]

Squeal is not just from a loose belt, it is also produced by a belt which has gotten wet, so it microscopicly slips at a high frequency. It also occurs when a belt driven hydraulic pump or A/C compressor becomes stalled by a blockage or hard resistance torque and the belt is crawling around one of the pulleys. You may be more familiar with a stalled power steering pump in a car or truck when you turn the steering wheel to full lock in one or both directions.

 

[TimP]

I did see a YouTube video where the A/C clutch was rusty from sitting too long. They just sanded it down and it was good.