M42club.com - Home of the BMW E30/E36 318i/iS
DISCUSSION => Engine + Driveline => Topic started by: nomad on August 13, 2007, 07:47:51 PM
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I replaced the belts and everything's cool but I'm wondering how tight I should have made them. I don't want to put undue pressure on the waterpump shaft bearing or the PS pump etc.
I'm thinking I may back them off some and see if I get any slippage.
Any "rule of thumb" to go by?
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A number of the DIYs suggest 1/4" deflection. I found this too tight. Trial and error to find the softest setting that didn't squeal was what I did. Keep track of the notches on the tightening track as you do this, and you'll have it dialed in in a couple of attempts.
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The factory adjusters will strip out way before you get your V belt to tight. As long it doesn’t squeal its fine. 1/4” play/Deflection is perfect.
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Guess I'll back them off slightly then.
And yes, those factory adjusters are rediculous.