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Unread 04-09-2008, 09:01 PM   #1
00sean00
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Serpentine belt tension?

Whats the tension on a new serpentine belt suppose to be?
I heard 180lbs-200lbs but I wanted another opinion.

Thanks
Sean

93,cherokee,6cyl,4.0L

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Unread 04-09-2008, 09:05 PM   #2
the_weirdo
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Super-duper tight. If it squeals then it is too loose.
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Unread 04-09-2008, 09:10 PM   #3
00sean00
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Yeah I kinda figured that. Im was going to use a gauge to ensure I do not damage anything. I heard 180-200lbs, 1/2" deflection. Never replaced this before, dont want to screw it up. Suggestions?
Thanks
Sean
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Unread 04-09-2008, 10:25 PM   #4
ehall
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Haynes says 180-200 lbs for a new belt, 140-160 for an old one.
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Unread 04-09-2008, 10:33 PM   #5
00sean00
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thats weird... I couldnt find it anywhere in my Haynes. Says 1/2" deflection but I couldnt find the lbs.
Thanks for the info!
Sean
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Unread 04-09-2008, 11:34 PM   #6
ehall
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Probably Chilton then, I don't remember which
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Unread 04-09-2008, 11:46 PM   #7
asp87
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i've always gone with the first reply or about 90* twist between 2 pulleys
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Unread 04-09-2008, 11:51 PM   #8
XJ2000
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The above specs were correct (180-200, etc). A new belt will stretch/loosen over time, so you may want to check it and retighten if necessary.
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Unread 04-25-2008, 09:05 AM   #9
KRUNNCH
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I would so recommend the NAPA auto part belt tension gauge. I tightened mine earlier in the week by eyeball and deflection...WOW I was way off. I think my tension was around 80 and it had to be at 180....lol So for those who do it by guesstimate...go buy the $13 tension gauge.
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Unread 05-20-2008, 11:51 AM   #10
GreggieAtTheBat
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I was trying to set my serpentine tension the other day ('93 YJ 2.5L) and found this thread...
Seriously, all you guys who use "deflection" method -- this is way easier. Get the KR-2, it's ridiculously easy to use. As KRUNNCH said, I had it set at tension lower than the gauge would even measure (probably in the 80-90 range). The tension gauge works from 100-200 lbs (and has a scale for corresponding metric measure too if you prefer).

Can someone confirm the tension that I should have on this motor? This thread was started for '93 4.0L, I need specs for a 2.5L. (I set it to 180lbs for now).
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Unread 06-30-2008, 07:11 PM   #11
RDNZL
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Quote:
Originally Posted by 00sean00 View Post
ensure I do not damage anything.
Sean
Actually this is the biggest cause of siezed alternators. Tighten it up too tight and you put too much pressureon the bearings... and your power steering pump and a/c compressor also if you got that.
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Unread 07-01-2008, 01:05 PM   #12
xjfan
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I also eyeballed it and it fell really tight. I only get the squeal when going through puddles. Will have to tighten up some more... Guess I'll be going to NAPA this week.

Thanks for the headsup....
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Unread 07-01-2008, 03:19 PM   #13
RDNZL
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My store charged me $16.88, but whatever... it's cheaper than an alternator!

Part number NBHKR2 at NAPA
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Unread 02-28-2009, 11:36 PM   #14
eric411420
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To everyone that responded, thanks a million! After changing it I am a little embarrassed that I was worried about it but it sure was nice knowing that if I had a question I could get an answer. The new belt (Goodyear Gator(back?)) is on and all is good. I guessed at the tension but I doubt that I am too loose. I just hope I didn't over do it. I'll have to stop by Napa. All the pulleys, fan clutch, alternator, etc seem to be in good shape. Again, thanks for the support!. I am going to start a new thread about an issue I am having while shifting but I'll mention it here just in case someone is still reading this and can help. When I shift, it sounds like someone is hitting the bottom of the Jeep with a rubber mallet. I can feel it jerk when it does it as well. I am suspicious of the clutch and the trans mount but I looked at the trans mount and didn't see anything wrong. It was a very quick look though. I am off to start a new thread. Thanks again!

Eric
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Unread 04-05-2009, 07:41 AM   #15
sjwrangler
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Do you measure the belt between the PS and alternator, with or without the tensioner (roller)?
The roller on my non A/C 2.5 4-banger deflects the belt already a little.
I would imagine thatif one took off the roller, with 180 lbs tension, it would not go back on easy, and also would increase the tension.
Comments?
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