Correct 16V cam belt tension - Saxperience

karl_mh · 27th December 2018, 20:35

I have heard of a cam belt tensioning tool for the 16V engines but unfortunately I don't have one so does anyone know of an accurate method to measure belt tension? possibly deflection between pulley or a belt tension spring balance?

dturbo · 27th December 2018, 23:14

I've seen a description of how to make one using a spanner I think, plus a known weight hanging off it (think it's in the Haynes manual perhaps). Alternatively, I think about 10mm deflection on the long run is a rule of thumb but not entirely sure. A general rule of thumb which I have seen and used on Aux belts is that you should be just able to twist it 90 Degrees on the longest run. Not totally sure if that also applies to timing belts though.

karl_mh · 29th December 2018, 17:30

Thanks for the info, I do have a Haynes somewhere in the garage.Ill dig it out and have a perusal.