Component Tests
Accessory Drive Belt Tensioner - Static Check
The accessory drive belt tensioner may be checked statically as follows:
- 1.
Inspect the area surrounding the accessory drive belt tensioner for lubricant or other contamination. Rectify any leaks before installing a new accessory drive belt tensioner. If the accessory drive belt tensioner is contaminated, do not attempt to clean it as the damping mechanism inside may be damaged. INSTALL a new accessory drive belt tensioner as necessary. Refer to: Accessory Drive Belt Tensioner . TEST the system for normal operation.
- 3.NOTE: The accessory drive belt tensioner has a damping feature, which is usually a friction device, therefore some friction within the system is normal.
Using the correct tool, move the accessory drive belt tensioner from its relaxed position through its full stroke and back to the relaxed position to make sure there is no excessive stick, grab or bind, and to make sure there is tension on the accessory drive belt tensioner spring.
- 4.
Rotate the accessory drive belt tensioner pulley and check for damage, freedom of rotation and alignment. INSTALL a new accessory drive belt tensioner as necessary. Refer to: Accessory Drive Belt Tensioner . TEST the system for normal operation.
- 5.
If the accessory drive belt tensioner meets the above criteria, proceed to test the accessory drive belt tensioner dynamically. If the accessory drive belt tensioner does not meet the above criteria, INSTALL a new accessory drive belt tensioner. Refer to: Accessory Drive Belt Tensioner . TEST the system for normal operation.
Accessory Drive Belt Tensioner - Dynamic Check
The accessory drive belt tensioner may be checked dynamically as follows:
- 1.
With the engine running, observe the accessory drive belt tensioner movement. The accessory drive belt tensioner should move (respond) when the engine is accelerated rapidly or when the A/C clutch cycles ON and OFF (the degree of movement can be up to 4 mm). If the accessory drive belt tensioner movement is not constant without engine acceleration or A/C clutch cycling, a pulley or shaft is possibly bent, out of round, or the damping mechanism inside the accessory drive belt tensioner may be damaged. INSTALL a new accessory drive belt tensioner as necessary. Refer to: Accessory Drive Belt Tensioner . TEST the system for normal operation.
- 2.
Excessive accessory drive belt rideout (uneven depth of grooves in the accessory drive belt) may cause excessive accessory drive belt tensioner movement. Check the condition by installing a new accessory drive belt. Refer to: Air Conditioning (A/C) Compressor Belt . TEST the system for normal operation.