9000 Hatchback L4-2290cc 2.3L DOHC Turbo EFI (1994)
Drive Belt Tensioner: Description and Operation
The drive for auxiliaries has an automatic belt tensioner which is easy to service and has a long working life. The operating principle of the tensioner is
similar to that of an hydraulic cam follower. On a momentary increase in the load on the tensioner, compressing it, the ball valve closes, preventing oil
from flowing out of the cylinder but forcing (see image) to take place through the minute gap (1/100 mm) between the piston and cylinder wall. On a
momentary reduction in the load on the tensioner, allowing it to expand, the valve opens and oil flows into the cylinder. A powerful coil spring in the
tensioner always maintains a certain level of tension, regardless of whether the load on the tensioner is increasing or decreasing.
