Drive Belt Auto-Tensioner Inspection

Special Tools Required 

Belt Tension Release Tool Snap-on YA9317* or equivalent, commercially available

1. Turn the ignition switch to ON (II), and make sure to turn the A/C switch off. Turn the ignition switch to LOCK (0).
2. Check the position of the auto-tensioner indicator (A). Start the engine, then check the position again with the engine idling. If the position of the indicator moves or fluctuates very much, replace the auto-tensioner (see DRIVE BELT AUTO-TENSIONER REPLACEMENT  ).
   Fig 1: Identifying Auto-Tensioner Position Within Standard Range

   Courtesy of AMERICAN HONDA MOTOR CO., INC.
3. Check for abnormal noise from the tensioner pulley. If you hear abnormal noise, replace the tensioner pulley (see TENSIONER PULLEY REPLACEMENT  ).
4. Remove the drive belt (see DRIVE BELT REPLACEMENT  ).
5. Move the auto-tensioner within its limit with the belt tension release tool (YA9317) 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 (see DRIVE BELT AUTO-TENSIONER REPLACEMENT  ).
   Fig 2: Moving Auto-Tensioner Using Belt Tension Release Tool (YA9317)

   Courtesy of AMERICAN HONDA MOTOR CO., INC.
6. Remove the auto-tensioner (see DRIVE BELT AUTO-TENSIONER REPLACEMENT  ).
7. Clamp the auto-tensioner (A) by using two 8 mm bolts (B) and a vise (C) as shown. Do not clamp the auto-tensioner itself.
   Fig 3: Aligning Indicator On Tensioner Base With Belt Position Mark On Tensioner Arm Using Torque Wrench

   Courtesy of AMERICAN HONDA MOTOR CO., INC.
8. Set the torque wrench (D) on the pulley bolt, and align it as shown.
9. Align the indicator (E) on the tensioner base with belt position mark (F) on the tensioner arm by using the torque wrench, and measure the torque. If the torque value is out of specification, replace the auto-tensioner (see DRIVE BELT AUTO-TENSIONER REPLACEMENT  ).
   NOTE: If the indicator exceeds the belt position mark, recheck the torque.

   Auto-Tensioner Spring Torque: 

   17.6-22.8 N.m 

   (1.79-2.32 kgf.m, 13.0-16.8 lbf.ft)