Visual Inspection
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For examples of drive belt conditions, see Fig..
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Glazing
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Tensile Break
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Separating Layers
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Uneven Ribs
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Streaked Sidewalls
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Cracks
Fig. 1, Drive Belt Replacement Conditions
- Inspect the belt for glazing. Shiny sidewalls are evidence of glazing, which is caused by friction created when a loose belt slips in the pulleys. It can also be caused by oil or grease contamination on the pulleys.
- Check for tensile breaks or breaks in the cord body. Cuts in a belt are usually caused by foreign material in the pulley or by prying or forcing the belt during removal or installation.
- Check the belt for ply separation. Oil, grease, or belt dressing can cause the belt to fall apart in layers. Repair any oil or coolant leaks that are affecting the belts before replacing the drive belts. Do not use belt dressing on any belt.
- Check for uneven ribs on serpentine (poly-V) belts. Foreign material in the pulley will erode the undercord ribs causing the belt to lose its gripping power.
- Check the belt for a jagged or streaked sidewall. Jagged or streaked sidewalls are the result of foreign material, such as sand or gravel, in the pulley, or a rough pulley surface.
- Check the drive belts for cracks. Small, irregular cracks are usually indication of an old belt.
- Visually inspect the pulleys for excessive play or wobble.
Excessive play or wobble indicates a failure of the pulley bearing.
Check for belt squealing or squeaking. Replace the bearings as necessary.
Note: If it is difficult to distinguish the location of a supposed bearing noise, obtain a stethoscope and place it on the component being checked, not the pulley, to isolate the area from outside interference.
- Inspect all pulleys for foreign material, oil, or grease in the grooves.
Note: