AMC V8 Belt Tension

Anyone know the best way to get the alternator adjusted to get proper tension on the belt to keep the belt from squealing. I've worked with mine to get it to almost quit squealing, but it still does occasionally, mainly on first start up. I'm fairly certain my belt is riding in the pulleys properly. It is difficult however to keep the alternator pulley true with the belt. When pulling it tight, it tends to get the alternator slightly out.

 

What alternator is it? If it is a CS-144 the load to turn the pulley on a single belt is very high. It just takes too much instant torque to turn it and there is always some slipping...unless you go with a Bulltear serp. belt kit.

If its a standard 10SI you should be able to get it to work. Try belt dressing? How old are the pullies?

 

It's the stock NAPA replacement for the 73 304. I don't have power steering, so my belt rides on the alternator (new pulley), water pump (original pulley), and crank pulley (original pulley). The original pulleys have around 33,000 miles on them.

I was going to use belt dressing as a last resort.

 

How old is the belt? Does the alternator turn easily without the belt? Does the water pump turn easily? I'd clean the belt and pulleys with carb or brake cleaner, to remove any oily residue. You should not need heroic pressure to keep the belt from slipping. If the belt is old and glazed, replace it.

 

New Gates brand belt, new alternator, new water pump and all pulleys turn easy. I'll try cleaning the pulleys.

 

You could try touching the belt with a crayon as its running to see if that will quiet it down. An old trick from my old man. I have used it many times.