This photo is on my cars tensioner. I have the Alta 17% with the GatorBack 4060537 with about 13,000 miles on it. From what I can gather the stock belt is 1388mm and the GB I have 1365 then next other sizes in the GatorBack would be 1370 and 1350mm

Thanks

 

Oh sorry... wrong thread. I thought this one was about beer.

 

It can be

 

Excellent !!

Now... is that a LAGER or a LARGER beer ??

 

I needed that

 

Okay, now that someone appreciates my somewhat wharped sense of humor, can anyone help this fine gentleman with his question.

And thanks for being a good sport.

 

If you used the size Alta recommended, it should be ok. I dont have any of the papers that came with my pulley at hand, so I cannot check.

 

I think the question he is asking is whether with a belt of proper length and a properly functioning tensioner, should a hole on the strap (that runs through the spring) be visible?

 

According to some other posts around here, you need to have at least half of one of the tensioner holes showing. (i can't remember the technical term, sorry) From what I can tell, it doesn't look to far from the first hole, but you might want to start thinking about changing out the belt at some point in the near future. To answer your original question:

Assuming the belt in the picture is close to new (it is not) then you would need to get a shorter belt. I honestly don't know if you already have the correct size and it just stretched out over the 13k miles.

 

Yes, that's correct, the thin metal plate sticking out on the picture should have a hole in it, at least half (Preferably more) of that hole should be showing to ensure proper belt tension.

 

Is the measurement of the so called "visible hole gauge" mentioned in the bentley manual?

Not trying to go against anyone here, but I'm just a bit curious where this information that the tensioner should show at least half a hole can be found... cause you know what they say about assumtion...

 

Dunno . It's certainly not going to hurt anything, seeing the hole just means there's more tension on the belt, which translates to more grip (less potential to slip).

As far as whether you "Have" to replace the belt, that's your call, I doubt the bentley would specify a tensioner hole requirement (Since the bentley is for stock cars, and the only reason your hole wouldn't be showing is if the pulley was smaller).

 

Fair enough.

I will change my belt first, but if no hole is visible even after the change, does that mean one should change the tensioner as well?

 

You've already climbed above my technical knowledge regarding the OEM tensioner, honestly i'm just not sure. I suggest you give Danny from MiniCorsa a call, he'll be able to help you out over the phone.

 

I would, if not because of the time difference! I'm all the way in Singapore, and no it's not in China...

Thanks for all the help here, pal!