David Brodbeck wrote:
Marshall Booth wrote:
David Brodbeck wrote:
General question about serp. belts -- is checking on the smooth side
acceptable, as long as the ribbed side isn't cracked? Or should I
replace a belt that shows this kind of wear?
The ribbed side of the belt is clearly visible where it loops over the
idler while where the belt loops over the PS pump pulley and then
descends to the AC compressor, the ribbed surface is somewhat obscured.
If there are any threads dangling at the side or the side of the belt
seems to be frayed, I'd change the belt too.
I think you misunderstood my question, due to poor word choice on my
part. By "checking" I meant fine, shallow cracks that form a sort of
irregular checked pattern on the surface. On one of my cars I have a
serpentine belt that has that kind of wear on the smooth side, but the
ribbed side still looks good. I'm wondering if I should change it.
I've never seen that pattern on any of the 15-20+ belts I've had on my
cars. If the belt seem pliable and supple I expect I'd go with it (but
ALWAYS carry a spare belt). I change the belt whenever I do work on the
tensioner (unless it's been very recently changed) and keep the best of
the old belts as spares. These belts seldom fail without clear visible
and audible warning well before they actually do fail, but you do need
to pay attention. If the belt makes noise FIND OUT WHY and fix it!
Marshall
--
Marshall Booth (who doesn't respond to unsigned questions)
"der Dieseling Doktor" [EMAIL PROTECTED]
'87 300TD 182Kmi, '85 190D 2.0 161Kmi, '87 190D 2.5 turbo 237kmi, '84
190D 2.2 229Kmi (retired)
