T-Belt Too Tight (T-Belt Whine)

  • #1

    T-Belt Too Tight (T-Belt Whine)

    PO of one of my Z's had the t-belt replaced. The mechanic must have put the t-belt on too tight because it's making the same high pitched whining noise discussed in this post: https://z31performance.com/search?q=…elevance%22%7D

    There are some videos about how to tighten the t-belt or how to install one, but virtually none on how to loosen it. I How do I loosen it? Do I need to remove the t-belt cover to access the tensioner pulley?
  • #2
    Do I need to remove the t-belt cover to access the tensioner pulley?
    Yep. It's behind the lower cover, which means removing the flywheel for access.



    84 AE/Shiro #683/Shiro #820/84 Turbo
  • #3
    Ok, and if I end up having the courage and patience to pull everything out of there to get to it, what's the best tool for adjusting the tensioner to loosen the belt?
  • #4
    In the FSM there is documentation on measuring deflection/tension using a applied downward force, a allen wrench and a feeler gauge. Also, Youtube

    My force gauge rig is a inverted fish scale with a 1inch wide aluminum bracket that, when i pull downward on the fish scale, i can tell how much force i am applying to the belt.

    scale.jpg


    84 AE/Shiro #683/Shiro #820/84 Turbo
  • #5
    That seems like an interesting and handy little thing to have for measuring deflection. I've seen similar ones, but they appear to be larger and more expensive. There's also the method shown in this video, and a lot of guys don't use factory measurement specs. But, you're way is undoubtedly more accurate. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=qePqGFqMYDU