Tightening of drive belts

[GrubyFngaz]

How do I know if I overtightened my drive belts? I had to change the a/c belt so I had to put them all back on. I just wanted to make sure I didn't overtighten them. I know you can measure the flex in the belt, but I don't know how much pressure I am putting on it. So how can I measure accurately. Thanks.Josh

[dfw240_EE]

Never done it myself, but here is a crazy idea. How about something like a fish scale and ruler? Of course put some sort of padding between the hook and belt so you don't cut into it.

You probably should wait though and see if someone else has a better idea.

Edit: I just looked it up. You are to put 22lbs of force on the belt to test, or 10kg, or 98N.

[Silvia007]

Easy, when your water pump, alternator, and/or power steering pump starts to wine as though their bearings are shot... it's too tight. (That's how my friend did it).

No, What I normally do is tighten them to the point where they won't squeek on startups. If you have done them enough, you just have a feel for them. Do not over tighten, it's better to have loose belts then overtighten ones.