1995 Mazda Protege Alternator drive belt squeals and breaks

1995 MAZDA PROTEGE
15,000 MILES • 4 CYL • FWD • AUTOMATIC
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SKYSWOOPER
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I have replaced the alternator drive belt several times and it replaced the alternator as well, and the battery! The new belts keep squealing and breaking immediately after they are replaced! Any ideas?!
Dec 13, 2008 at 11:11 AM
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DOCFIXIT
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Does the water pump spin freely?
Dec 15, 2008 at 2:58 PM
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SKYSWOOPER
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Yes, the water pump spins freely and the pulleys are perfectly aligned. The alternator seems to have so much magnetic "load" that the drive belt cannot spin the rotor and the belt breaks. I have researched this problem online and it appears to be a chronic problem with this model Mazda. This one may take some research to see if anyone has solved this problem!

Thanks!!

Jack
Dec 15, 2008 at 8:46 PM
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DOCFIXIT
  • ✓ASE Certified Mechanic
  • 18,828 POSTS
  • ASE Certified Mechanic
Easy test to see if it is alt. Remove B+ ie. large wire from batt. start up belt good then something is full fielding alt. When tightening belt mid way between the pullys belt should deflect 1/4 in. with 21lbs. pressure.Also the belt should be @1/8 in above pully grove if belt is lower then it will break the ply.
Dec 16, 2008 at 7:27 AM
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