Drive Belt Adjustment
WARNING: This page does not describe the selected car, but rather 13 other vehicles, including the 2002 Mercury Sable, 2002 Mercury Grand Marquis, 2002 Mercury Cougar, 2002 Lincoln Town Car, and 2002 Lincoln LS. However, it is still accessible from the selected car via links, so may be relevant.
Check belt for fraying. If fraying exists, ensure belt and tensioner are properly aligned. See Fig 1. Automatic tensioners are calibrated to provide correct amount of tension to belt for an accessory drive system. Unless a spring within tensioner assembly breaks, or some other mechanical part of tensioner fails, there is no need to check tensioner for correct tension. Continental and Escort models have tensioner belt wear indicators. Tension is within specification if tensioner pointer is within indicator markings. See Fig 2 and Fig 3 . If tensioner reaches travel limit, as indicated by marks on tensioner, replace belt. Ensure serpentine belts are properly installed.