FANBELT ADJUST

1 After sorting out the cold start idle problem, the fan belt started screeching while the engine warmed up. It only needs a small amount of slack to make the belt slip, especially if the alternator is working under load with the headlights on.

2 The bolt securing the alternator’s sliding adjuster just needed undoing a small amount. A little bit of resistance helps stop the alternator slipping back when tightening the mounting bolts holding it to the engine block.

3 It may look brutal, but using a long lever to take the weight of the alternator while tightening the bolts up helps keep the belt tight. Before doing this it’s best to have the lower mounting bolts pinch tight.

4 After all the bolts are done up, make sure the fan belt still has a small amount of slack in its longest run. If the belt is too tight, the bearings in the waterpump and alternator will be put under too much pressure and will eventually fail.