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WARNING: This product can expose you to chemical which is known to the State of California to cause cancer and birth defects or other reproductive harm. For more information go to www.P65Warnings.ca.gov.
WARNING: This product can expose you to chemical which is known to the State of California to cause cancer and birth defects or other reproductive harm. For more information go to www.P65Warnings.ca.gov.
WARNING: This product can expose you to chemical which is known to the State of California to cause cancer and birth defects or other reproductive harm. For more information go to www.P65Warnings.ca.gov.
WARNING: This product can expose you to chemical which is known to the State of California to cause cancer and birth defects or other reproductive harm. For more information go to www.P65Warnings.ca.gov.
WARNING: This product can expose you to chemical which is known to the State of California to cause cancer and birth defects or other reproductive harm. For more information go to www.P65Warnings.ca.gov.
WARNING: This product can expose you to chemical which is known to the State of California to cause cancer and birth defects or other reproductive harm. For more information go to www.P65Warnings.ca.gov.
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Shopping for Drive Belt Tensioner
Summary
- A drive belt tensioner is a pulley that is mounted on a spring mechanism or an adjustable pivot point.
- It ensures that enough tension is applied to the drive belt.
- A drive belt tensioner typically has four major components: a pulley, tensioner arm, spring, and base.
- The signs of a faulty tensioner include hearing squeaking and grinding noise near the drive belt assembly, frayed drive belt edges, worn-out pulley and bearings, and other related symptoms.
- A drive belt tensioner is usually priced between $50 and $250, depending on the brand you choose.
An internal combustion engine is equipped with several components that makes it possible for the engine to be in sync with other components of your vehicle. One of these components is the drive belt tensioner. Learn how it works and when to have it replaced with the help of this article.
What is a Drive Belt Tensioner?
A drive belt tensioner refers to a pulley that’s mounted on a spring mechanism or an adjustable pivot mount. It ensures that enough tension is applied to the drive belt. To understand the role of a tensioner, let’s discuss the basics of a drive belt system.
Drive Belt System
This system is responsible for converting engine-generated power for various components, such as the alternator, water pump, power steering pump, and air conditioning compressor.
The whole system works with the help of a drive belt, which refers to a continuous belt connecting these components (alternator, water pump, etc.) to the crankshaft. A drive belt needs a certain amount of tension to deliver power to these parts. This is where the tensioner comes in.
A drive belt tensioner typically has four major components: a pulley, tensioner arm, spring, and base. Each of these parts play a crucial role in the operation of the drive belt system.
- The pulley allows the drive belt to move.
- The tensioner arm makes it possible for the drive belt to be adjusted or removed.
- The spring ensures that the drive belt has the correct amount of tension. An automatic tensioner is equipped with a coil spring that applies just the right amount of force to the drive belt.
- The base holds the different components in place.
Symptoms of a Faulty Drive Belt Tensioner
Just like other vehicle components, a drive belt tensioner can wear out over time. Below are some of the telltale signs of a failing tensioner.
Note that some of these symptoms are only noticeable through a visual inspection of the drive belt system. If you’re not well-versed with auto repair, it is best to take your vehicle to an auto repair shop and let a mechanic do the inspection for you.
Squeaking or Grinding Noise
Any unusual sound coming from your engine isn’t a good sign. Once you hear any squeaking or grinding noise coming from the tensioner or drive belts, take your vehicle to an auto repair shop immediately.
A squeaking sound may indicate that the tensioner is loose. When there is inadequate tension in the drive belt, you may hear a sound that’s similar to a squeal or squeak. This symptom is noticeable when you start your engine.
On the other hand, a grinding noise may mean that your tensioner bearings are faulty. It could also indicate that the tensioner pulley is malfunctioning.
Frayed Drive Belt Edges
It’s normal for your vehicle’s drive belt to wear out over time. However, it may also be attributed to a faulty tensioner pulley. A bad drive belt tensioner pulley can fray or wear away the drive belt’s edges. In worse cases, it may also cause the drive belt to disintegrate or break completely.
Rust and Cracks
If you see rust bleeding in between the tensioner arm and the base, replace the drive belt tensioner right away. A crack in any part of the tensioner is also a tell-tale sign that it needs immediate replacement.
Although cracks may be seen on any part of the drive belt tensioner, pay extra attention to the mounting bolts and tensioner stops. These components are the ones most vulnerable to cracks.
Worn Out Pulley and/or Pulley Bearings
Excessive wear in your tensioner’s pulley or pulley bearings is a clear sign that your drive belt tensioner needs replacement. Just like several of the symptoms mentioned above, this can only be seen through visual inspection.
You’ll have to remove the drive belt and rotate the pulley. Check for roughness, resistance, or noise. These symptoms indicate a faulty bearing. You may also inspect the pulley for cracks, dents, and chips.
Most of the time, mechanics will recommend replacing the whole tensioner instead of just the pulley to maintain the integrity of the system.
Malfunctioning Belt-Driven Accessories
Without the drive belt tensioner, the drive belt won’t be able to properly transfer engine power to various parts. These include the alternator, water pump, and other belt-driven engine components. Any fault in the tensioner may cause these parts to fail.
Other Related Symptoms
Aside from identifying the symptoms mentioned above, there are other ways to check if the tensioner has gone bad. This includes checking the movement of the tensioner arm and detecting loss of tensioner spring force. If there is no resistance when you move the tensioner arm, it may indicate an issue in the tensioner spring.
How Much Does a Drive Belt Tensioner Cost?
A drive belt tensioner is usually priced between $50 and $250, depending on the brand you choose. Check the specifications of your potential drive belt tensioner replacements. Remember that tensioners are vehicle-specific, so make sure that you’re buying one that is compatible with your car’s year, make, and model.
Finding the Right Fit
To ensure that you’re getting a compatible replacement, enter the exact details of your vehicle (year, make, and model) into our built-in search function. Browse through our wide selection of drive belt tensioners and choose the best one for your vehicle.
