Drive Belt Tensioner: Testing and Inspection

Drive Belt Auto-tensioner Inspection

Special Tools Required
Belt tension release tool Snap-on YA9317or equivalent, commercially available.

J35A9 engine

1. Turn the ignition switch ON (II), and make sure the A/C switch is OFF. Turn the ignition switch OFF.

2. Check the position of the auto-tensioner indicator's pointer (A). Start the engine, then check the position again with the engine idling. If the position of the indicator moves or fluctuates a lot, replace the auto-tensioner.
3. Check for abnormal noise from the tensioner pulley. If you hear abnormal noise, replace the auto-tensioner pulley.
4. Remove the drive belt.

5. Move the auto-tensioner within its limit with a belt tension release tool in the direction shown. Check that the tensioner moves smoothly and without any abnormal noise. If the tensioner does not move smoothly or you hear abnormal noise, replace the auto-tensioner.
6. Remove the auto-tensioner.

7. Clamp the auto-tensioner (A) by using a 10 mm bolt (B), 8 mm bolt (C), and a vise (D) as shown. Do not clamp the auto-tensioner itself.

8. Attach a torque wrench (A) to the pulley bolt. Measure the torque when the tensioner is turned counterclockwise. If the torque is less than the specified value, replace the auto-tensioner.

J35Z1 engine

1. Turn the ignition switch ON (II), and make sure to run the A/C switch is OFF. Turn the ignition switch OFF.

5. Set a hexagon socket wrench into the drive belt auto-tensioner, and slowly turn the wrench in the direction of the rotation arrow. If the tensioner does not move smoothly, or you hear abnormal noise, replace the auto-tensioner.

NOTE: This is a hydraulic type auto-tensioner, so you must turn the wrench slowly.