A multi rib belt tensioner is designed to automatically hold a predetermined amount of tension on a drive belt while the engine is in operation. If the drive belt is loose the tensioner has failed or the wrong size belt has been installed. The tensioner should be about half way through its travel to hold proper tension, most have a gauge stamped on them to determine belt stretch for replacement On rare occasions an engine can buck or jerk at start up and can suddenly cause a belt to jump out of place. Other problems can occur if the belt itself snaps this can be due to fatigue of the belt. The most common reason for the belt to snap is age coupled with the natural wear and tear of the belt. Before belt tensioners there was a simple adjustment bolt that was used to set the tension on the belt. The disadvantage to this set up is once the belt stretches slightly it would have to be re-adjusted. If re-adjustment is not performed the belt can create a loud screeching noise. A belt tensioner consists of a main body, swing arm, tension spring, pulley and pulley bearing.
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