How do you know when your fan belt is tight enough, and not too tight? I'm afraid of tearing something up if I over tighten my belts, but my alternator belt squeals at times, and my rpms were down to 250 this afternoon. The squealing doesn't last very long (just a second or two) but it's enough that it's annoying. Any help?

 

Get a tension gauge and follow the FSM specs.....

 

if your belt is tight and it still squeals then get a new one.. a GOOD quality one. if it still squeals then check your pullies.. my harmonic balancer was effed up and the alterantor pulley on it broke loose and wobbled when it reved up

 

I just go by feel, but I've been at it for a few years. Also, try to clean the serpentine pulley groves with a wire wheel. Rubber builds up in the groves over time and causes problems.

I've been known to hold a wire brush against the pulley while the engine is running because I'm lazy, try this method at your own risk.

 

x2, id try these to things

 

Make sure you're also not leaking coolant or oil onto your belts. It makes one helluva racket.

 

I've been known to hold a wire brush against the pulley while the engine is running because I'm lazy, try this method at your own risk.[/QUOTE]

i like your way of thinking but i would like to add do this on the coast side not right before the pulley