Alternator/Waterpump Belt Tightness on '97 626
 

I have had a squealing alternator belt. I have been resistant to over-tighten the belt, but now it seems the only solution. Car has 112K mile and 2.0 engine. I replaced battery and alternator (voltage was a little too high). I have tried three different brands of belts... latest is Napa Gates. The last one, a gatorback, started squealing and broke! All three pulleys have been thoroughly cleaned (screwdriver, wire brush... even when running on crank pulley). Everything is running true and lined up.

With this last belt, I tightened it up very tight. I push hard with my fingers in the middle of the belt (at least the specified 22 lbs pressure) and belt deflects about 1/4". Seems extremely tight to me, and I am concerned about ruining the water pump bearing... but it appears to be the only option left.

Is this normal to have to make this alternator belt so tight?? Any ideas?

Thanks,
Kevin.

RE: Alternator/Waterpump Belt Tightness on '97 626
 

I had a similar problem with my alternator belts. they would continue to make noise even after the belts were tightned, removed, cleaned and retightened.. and on and on. the noise always came back and the belts would eventually break off. the pulleys were said to be fine but after looking closely and listening in, my mechanic found out the air compressor was shot and needed to be replaced. he replaced the air compressor and put in new belts and i haven't had the problem again.

make sure you do not overload with belt dressing. this doesnt solve the noise problem. you can buy all the best belts you want but sounds like you have a deeper issue.