Question
Tensioner Bolt
QUESTION: Hi, one of my accessory belts started squealing this winter. This happens for about 20 seconds when I start the car and almost everytime I turn the car. Another poster had the same issue, and allexperts(HT expert) suggested it was the alternator belt:
http://en.allexperts.com/q/Hyundai-Repair-815/2001-Hyundai-Accent-Squealing.htm
I believe it is the same issue. But, how do I tighten the alternator belt? There is a manual tensioner that tightens the A/C belt, but I do not see one for the alternator. The manual tensioner is also completely tightened on my car(image attached).
So, here are my questions:
1) How do I tighten the alternator belt. If you can provide me with a few steps, it would be helpful.
2) If the manual tensioner that I mentioned earlier is used to tighten the alternator belt, then can you explain how it does it. It seems to only control the A/C belt directly. And what should I do, since it is already completely tightened.
3) In case, you offer me a solution that involves replacing the belt(s), then can you provide me with steps on how to do that. I know that I have to remove the power steering belt to remove the alternator belt. And I have to remove the alternator belt to remove the A/C belt.
Thanks,
John M
ANSWER: You shouldn't need to replace the belts to stop the squealing unless they're stretched too large or they're in poor condition.
The adjustment for the alternator belt is where the top of the alternator attaches to the mounting bracket. In this location, there'll be one short bolt with head facing the driver's side of the car a long bolt with head facing the front of the car. First, loosen the short bolt. This will allow the alternator to move and tighten the belt. Next, tighten the longer bolt until you've reached the desired belt tension. Then, retighten the shorter bolt to securely hold the alternator in place.
---------- FOLLOW-UP ----------
QUESTION: Thanks for the response. I will try that this weekend. But, can you tell me why you believe that the alternator belt is causing the squeaking? Why do you not think it is the P/S or A/C belt?
What does the squealing actually mean? Does that mean that the belt is slipping or something like that?
Thanks,
John M
AnswerI think it's the alternator belt for two reasons:
1. The a/c belt has nearly no load when the a/c is not on, and the alternator belt bears the load of the water pump, alternator, and power steering.
2. Experience. I've never seen any other belt cause squealing on startup.
The squealing indeed means the belt is slipping.
