Drive Belt Deflection/Tension Inspection

WARNING: This page is about a different car, the 2004 Mazda RX-8. However, it is still accessible from the selected car via links, so may be relevant.

CAUTION:

The drive belt deflection can be inspected only between specified pulleys.
Perform the drive belt deflection/tension inspection when the engine is cold, or at least 30 min after the engine has stopped.
If the drive belt that is being used exceeds the deflection/tension limit, adjust it to the deflection/tension used when adjusting.
After replacing with a new drive belt, assemble with the deflection/tension for the new drive belt. Operate the generator drive belt for 1 min or more and the A/C drive belt for 5 min or more while idling the engine. Then adjust it to the deflection/tension used when adjusting.

Remove the engine cover. (See ENGINE COVER REMOVAL/INSTALLATION .)
Apply a pressure of 98 N {10 kgf, 22 lbf} to the back of the drive belt in the middle of the pulleys shown in the figure and inspect the deflection. Otherwise, inspect the tension using the SST .

Fig 1: Locating Areas For Pressure Application On Drive Belt
Courtesy of MAZDA MOTORS CORP.
NOTE:
- The drive belt tension can be inspected anywhere between the pulleys. The drive belt deflection can be inspected only between specified pulleys.
- If the drive belt deflection is at the deflection limit or more, or the drive belt tension is at the tension limit or less, adjust the drive belt tension.
Fig 2: Installing Special Tool On Belt For Inspecting Tension
Courtesy of MAZDA MOTORS CORP.

Drive belt deflection (with pressure of 98 N {10 kgf, 22lbf})

Fig 3: Drive Belt Deflection
Courtesy of MAZDA MOTORS CORP.

Drive belt tension (when using the SST)

Fig 4: Drive Belt Tension - Using SST
Courtesy of MAZDA MOTORS CORP.
Install the engine cover. (See ENGINE COVER REMOVAL/INSTALLATION .)