10-18-2016, 05:57 PM
The accessory V Ribbed Belt system powers the peripherals that keep passengers comfortable, but it also powers key components, such as the water pump and alternator, that are essential for the vehicle to function. Each of the three components of the drive belt system has a purpose. An owner can replace the parts individually, but most service stations prefer to replace the entire system to ensure its longevity. The parts for the drive belt system are readily available in local automotive stores as well as on diverse retail sites like eBay.
The drive belt is the main power driver of the system. Commonly known as the serpentine belt, it spins on the pulleys to generate and distribute power to each of the accessories or peripherals. The serpentine belt was once made of neoprene, but due to issues with wear, manufacturers now use EPDM, a strong, synthetic rubber that stands up to tougher use. Modern vehicles typically only have a single belt in the system, although rare exceptions exist with two belts.
The tensioner keeps the belt snugly in place while the car runs. Most vehicles have an automatic tensioner that does not require manual adjustments. The two types of automatic tensioners include spring-loaded, which is most common, and hydraulic. Manual tensioners are rare in modern vehicles, although they still exist in older vehicles. They lock in place but require adjusting by hand.
Pulleys guide the belt along its path. Modern pulleys have bearings inside and are spring-loaded. The bearings have long lifespans, but when they wear out, it usually results in a full replacement of the drive belt system. Pulleys are available individually and as part of drive belt system kits.
Like most parts in a vehicle, the accessory drive belt system eventually requires maintenance. Replacement of the drive belt usually occurs between 60,000 and 100,000 miles as part of routine servicing, although belts may last longer. Routine maintenance is extremely important to prevent the belt from snapping or otherwise disengaging and causing damage to the rest of the engine.
A simple look under the hood does not usually reveal obvious problems to inexperienced owners. That is why it is important to have an experienced mechanic routinely examine the drive belt system for signs of trouble. click www.automotivedrivingbelt.com to see more information.
The drive belt is the main power driver of the system. Commonly known as the serpentine belt, it spins on the pulleys to generate and distribute power to each of the accessories or peripherals. The serpentine belt was once made of neoprene, but due to issues with wear, manufacturers now use EPDM, a strong, synthetic rubber that stands up to tougher use. Modern vehicles typically only have a single belt in the system, although rare exceptions exist with two belts.
The tensioner keeps the belt snugly in place while the car runs. Most vehicles have an automatic tensioner that does not require manual adjustments. The two types of automatic tensioners include spring-loaded, which is most common, and hydraulic. Manual tensioners are rare in modern vehicles, although they still exist in older vehicles. They lock in place but require adjusting by hand.
Pulleys guide the belt along its path. Modern pulleys have bearings inside and are spring-loaded. The bearings have long lifespans, but when they wear out, it usually results in a full replacement of the drive belt system. Pulleys are available individually and as part of drive belt system kits.
Like most parts in a vehicle, the accessory drive belt system eventually requires maintenance. Replacement of the drive belt usually occurs between 60,000 and 100,000 miles as part of routine servicing, although belts may last longer. Routine maintenance is extremely important to prevent the belt from snapping or otherwise disengaging and causing damage to the rest of the engine.
A simple look under the hood does not usually reveal obvious problems to inexperienced owners. That is why it is important to have an experienced mechanic routinely examine the drive belt system for signs of trouble. click www.automotivedrivingbelt.com to see more information.