Types of Belts and How To Replace Them – ListDen

The engine of a car is comprised of a multitude of components and mechanical accessories that help in its functions. These are inclusive of power steering pump, water pump, alternator, air conditioner compressor, and the like. Amongst all, the drive belt too is a component that aids in the optimal functioning of the car. In fact, the drive belt is a component that assembles and assists in the operation of all the aforementioned components. The belt is connected to the engine crankshaft and is driven with the help of a pulley.

Usually, this drive belt is made out of a long-wearing, tough rubber material. These belts, owing to their durability, would need to be replaced upon every 40,000 to 70,000 miles. Some drive belts are of such a high quality that they can perform well into 100,000 miles too.

Some of the primary reasons that lead to the deterioration of drive belts are road dirt and debris, excessive heat, leakage of oil, and water. For instance, if it so happens that the protective shield underneath the engine has been damaged, the beat is bound to wear out sooner. Any oil leaks could also foster the wearing away of the drive belt by sooner than expected.

 

SERPENTINE BELT

This category of drive belts is among the most popular options in the market today. This type of drive belt has been on the surge since the 1990s and are fairly easy to change. This belt navigates its way through several accessories, the crank pulley, idler pulley, and a tensioner. To replace it, get hold of a socket and force the tensioner pulley loose to remove the belt. However, be careful to not rip the belt apart, as that could mean additional trouble. These belts need to be replaced as soon as you notice them looking cracked or when the depth of the grooves seems to become too shallow.
TIMING BELTS

The timing belt is characterized by the connection between the crankshaft and the camshaft in order to keep them synchronized. The belt is not usually visible as it is placed behind the timing cover. These belts would need replacements every 60,000 to 90,000 miles. Just as the serpentine belts, these too would have to develop visible cracks on the surface to indicate a replacement. There are several models in the market which employ timing chains instead of belts which have been customized to be of a prolonged lifespan.
DRIVE BELTS AND V-BELTS

Drive belts are generally to be found on older vehicle models. They are also known as V-Belts because of the manner in which the rubber teeth are designed. This type has its own advantages too. There are individual belts for the air conditioning, alternator, water pump, and the radiator fan. Even if you break one of these, you might manage to reach your destination without any major impediments. The major disadvantage of drive belts is that these are to be changed individually and generating the right amount of tension can often become a hindrance. Loose drive belts will be prone to making squealing sounds, making use of your alternator to charge and thereby overheating your car.  To test the tension you could press down the middle of the longest point of the belt and compress it by an inch.

 

If you happen to be looking for high-quality belts for your car, you can rely on the name of Rainbow Precision Products to cater to all your needs.

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