1997 Dodge Caravan belt conming off

1997 DODGE CARAVAN
98,000 MILES • 6 CYL • FWD • AUTOMATIC
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FILGISHER
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  • 2 POSTS
the larger of the 2 belts in my 97 caravan keeps coming off at start up. This has happened 3 times in the last 6 months. I put a new one on in July of '07. Tension seems alright, about 1/2" to 3/4" of play on the belt. Would the tensioner pully going bad cause this, and if so how would I know its going bad? Thanks for the help-gil
Oct 23, 2008 at 12:04 PM
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JACOBANDNICKOLAS
  • ✓Experienced Mechanic
  • 110,244 POSTS
Hi:
yes the tensionier could cause this. Are you getting any noise from the belt? Also, when doing a visual inspection, do all of the pulleys line up properly? Are you sure the belt is properly routed?

To check routing, go to the "Popular Site Links" on this page and select "Drive Belt Routing Diagrams."

Put your car information in and it will show you the proper routing for the belt.

Also, does the belt tensioner sill have a strong spring action to it, or is it stiff and hard to move?

Let me know if this helps.

Joe
Oct 27, 2008 at 4:34 PM
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FILGISHER
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Thanks for the input. Tensioner was getting very stiff, but never heard any noise from the belts. Pulleys were aligned and the belt was routed as indicated on the diagram under the hood next to it. Went ahead and replaced the tensioner as it was original equipment I thought I'd start there. We'll see how it plays out. Once again, thanks for your help. -gil
Oct 30, 2008 at 1:33 PM
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JACOBANDNICKOLAS
  • ✓Experienced Mechanic
  • 110,244 POSTS
Hi Again:
I wish you luck. If you have any other questions, let me know and I'll do my best to help.

Joe
Positive feedback is appreciated.
Oct 31, 2008 at 12:19 AM
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