RAM 3500 Truck 2WD L6-5.9L DSL Turbo VIN 7 (2002)
Drive Belt Tensioner: Description and Operation
DESCRIPTION
Drive belts on all engines are equipped with a spring loaded automatic belt tensioner (Fig. 9). This tensioner maintains constant belt tension at all
times and requires no maintenance or adjustment.
CAUTION: Do not attempt to check belt tension with a belt tension gauge on vehicles equipped with an automatic belt tensioner.
OPERATION
WARNING: THE AUTOMATIC BELT TENSIONER ASSEMBLY IS SPRING LOADED. DO NOT ATTEMPT TO DISASSEMBLE THE
TENSIONER ASSEMBLY.
The automatic belt tensioner maintains correct belt tension using a coiled spring within the tensioner housing. The spring applies pressure to the
tensioner arm pressing the arm into the belt, tensioning the belt.
If a new belt is being installed, the arrow must be within approximately 3 mm (1/8 inch) of indexing mark. Belt is considered new if it has been used
15 minutes or less. If this specification cannot be met, check for:
^
The wrong belt being installed (incorrect length/ width)
^
Worn bearings on an engine accessory (A/C compressor, power steering pump, water pump, idler pulley or generator)
^
A pulley on an engine accessory being loose
^
Misalignment of an engine accessory
^
Belt incorrectly routed.
