i've got a 1981 mitsubishi col. its running really nice. other than the alternator belt keeps wearing out very freaquently. the problem seems to be the alignment of it. but it cant be fixed. anyone had this problem before. any idea how i can get around it.
ps. plz dont coment if you're going to say stuff like get another car. i'm not hoping to sell this car coz if the next owner cant look after it it will probably go tothe junk yard.
2007-09-08 17:36:03 · 6 answers · asked by Anonymous in Cars & Transportation ➔ Maintenance & Repairs
Firstly make sure the tension on the belt is set so at the longest point between the two pulleys has a minimum of 10-15mm deflection when pressed on the belt with a moderate force.
Make sure the pulleys are in good condition and that the belt is not running too deeply in the grooves, it should run partially proud of the sides of the grooves on both pulleys.
Check the alignment with a ruler across the alternator pulley and see if it lines up with the crankshaft pulley.
If the pulleys are crooked then the mounting bracket/ bolts may require replacement to correct the problem.
If the alternator pulley orientation sits too far back or forward from the crank pulley then the alternator pulley can be removed from the alternator and an adjustment of shims/ spacers/ washers can rectify this issue.
The alternator itself may require replacing if its mounting points are worn or the pulley cannot be adjusted sufficiently.
A non genuine replacement part should be relatively cheap and easy to source, I'd recommend Bosch (which it probably already has fitted) a reputable auto electrician should be able to assist with any repairs.
Good Luck.
2007-09-08 17:59:07 · answer #1 · answered by jezdgenr8 2 · 1⤊ 0⤋
This is a common problem, especially once it gets messed up. One has to spend a lot of time observing the angles of the belt going to and from the alternator pulley. You need a strong light. There is probably a washer missing. A washer missing from any point that " secures " the alternator will alter the angle. Have you ever "eyed" a 2x4 to check it's alignment? That is basically what you have to do to find the problem. Do check for burrs as the one answer commented. Good luck, hope I helped some.
2007-09-08 17:51:20 · answer #2 · answered by Anonymous · 0⤊ 0⤋
1981 Mitsubishi Colt
2016-12-16 05:21:39 · answer #3 · answered by keetan 4 · 0⤊ 0⤋
The alignment should be able to be fixed, even if you have to use shims to get it right. Also the pulleys may have a burr on them and that is chewing up your belt. Have a mechanic look at it and see what he/she has to say.
good luck.
2007-09-08 17:43:42 · answer #4 · answered by Fordman 7 · 0⤊ 0⤋
no never had that problem but you might remove the belt and make sure the pulleys are not wiggling or look at the belt while it is on and see where it pulls to the side
2007-09-08 17:46:20 · answer #5 · answered by Anonymous · 0⤊ 0⤋
im not sure see a mechanic...
2007-09-08 17:40:21 · answer #6 · answered by Baby boy on board [[April 16th]] 3 · 0⤊ 0⤋