Setting tension on the serpentine belt

2000 DODGE DAKOTA
2.5L • 4 CYL • 2WD • MANUAL
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MUNDANEATROCITY
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  • 4 POSTS
How do you precisely set the tension on the serpentine belt? This particular truck does not have automatic belt tensioning. I've seen instructions (from Chilton) that you are supposed to use a "belt tensioning gauge" to set the tension of a new belt at 180-200 lbs. How am I supposed to do that when I can't find the proper tool?

May 18, 2014 at 1:50 AM
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JDL
  • ✓Experienced Mechanic
  • 16,098 POSTS
I've seen universal belt tension gages on e bay, the cheapest was 29.99 made in China. The higher quality tension gages may run around 150 bucks.

You might go to your local dealership talk to the service department, see if one of their mechanics will loan you a belt tension gage? Just make sure you take it back. Some mechanics are very helpful, some aren't.
May 18, 2014 at 3:53 AM
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