1998 Pontiac Sunfire Belt Tensioner Tight

1998 PONTIAC SUNFIRE
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RAMBO4
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  • 1 POST
I just replaced my alternator and also my serpentine belt. The belt I got at the parts store is a Goodyear Gatorback belt.

It is a little thicker than the standard 5 ribbed belt and thus a little shorter. My worry is that my tensioner seems almost maxed out. I can only move it about 1/2 a cm. before it is maxed out.

What is the standard "play" in the tensioner supposed to be?
Feb 21, 2007 at 8:29 AM
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CHEVY22
  • ✓Experienced Mechanic
  • 1,375 POSTS
sounds a little tight but not much , the belts are made to stretch , over time it will loosen up a bit , tensioners almost max out when the belt is on , sounds like it will be ok, let it run and watch it just to make sure its ok before motoring
Feb 21, 2007 at 11:49 PM

Suggested Repair

A new belt that leaves the tensioner nearly at its limit is a little tight but can be acceptable. Belts stretch and loosen slightly with use. Run the engine and watch the belt and tensioner before driving to confirm normal operation.

Conversation Summary

The owner of a 1998 Pontiac Sunfire replaced the alternator and serpentine belt with a thicker, slightly shorter Goodyear Gatorback belt and is concerned that the tensioner is nearly maxed out, with only about half a centimeter of movement. The expert says this is a little tight but typical for a new belt, which should stretch and loosen slightly, and advises running the engine and watching it before driving.

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