Drive Belt Auto-Tensioner Inspection

Special Tools Required 

Belt Tension Release Tool Snap-on YA9317, 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 a lot, replace the auto-tensioner (see DRIVE BELT AUTO-TENSIONER REPLACEMENT  ).
   Fig 1: Checking Position Of Auto-Tensioner Indicator

   Courtesy of AMERICAN HONDA MOTOR CO., INC.
3. Check for abnormal noise from the tensioner pulley. If you hear any abnormal noise, replace the auto-tensioner pulley (see TENSIONER PULLEY REPLACEMENT  ).
4. Remove the drive belt (see DRIVE BELT REPLACEMENT  ).
5. Move the auto-tensioner within its limit using the belt tension release tool (YA9317) in the direction of the arrow. Check that the auto-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 Within Its Limit Using Belt Tension Release Tool (YA9317) In Direction Of Arrow

   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 a 10 mm bolt (B), an 8 mm bolt (C), and a vise (D) as shown. Do not clamp the auto-tensioner itself.
   Fig 3: Clamping Auto-Tensioner By Using 10 mm Bolt, 8 mm Bolt, And Vise

   Courtesy of AMERICAN HONDA MOTOR CO., INC.
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 (see DRIVE BELT AUTO-TENSIONER REPLACEMENT  ).

   Auto-tensioner Spring Torque: 

   50.5 N.m {5.15 kgf.m, 37.2 lbf.ft) 

   Fig 4: Measuring Auto-Tensioner Spring Torque

   Courtesy of AMERICAN HONDA MOTOR CO., INC.
9. Install the auto-tensioner in the reverse order of removal.