What is an alternator drive belt?
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The Curious Bag
ANSWERS: 1
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Alternators are a type of generator used to recharge a car's battery and power its ignition system. The alternator is powered by the engine, via a belt connected to the crankshaft.
Belt Location
The alternator is mounted on the front of the engine, and the belt is wrapped around it.
V-Belts
Older alternators use V-belts, which are about 3/8-inch wide and 1/2-inch tall and fit into a deep channel, carved into the alternator and crankshaft pulley.
Serpentine Belts
Serpentine belts are wide, thin and grip the alternator using a number of small ribs. These belts are often connected to every other accessory drive on the engine, including the water and power steering pump.
Adjustment
V-belt tension is adjusted by swiveling the alternator outward, and serpentine belts are adjusted via a spring-loaded tensioner pulley.
Failure
Alternator belts emit a chirping squeal when slipping, which will be accompanied by the scent of burnt rubber prior to failure.
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