Date:         Mon, 26 Oct 2009 18:17:49 -0500
Reply-To:     Michael Sullivan <sandwichhead@GMAIL.COM>
Sender:       Vanagon Mailing List <vanagon@gerry.vanagon.com>
From:         Michael Sullivan <sandwichhead@GMAIL.COM>
Subject:      Re: Change a VW Fan Belt In 5 Seconds?
Comments: To: David Beierl <dbeierl@attglobal.net>
In-Reply-To:  <4ae62198.0e0bca0a.7ab4.0822@mx.google.com>
Content-Type: text/plain; charset=ISO-8859-1

I noticed it was loose beforehand and wondered if a new belt would pop right
on.  The process of adjusting tension on an air cooled beetle involves
removing/adding washers on the alternator.  Seems if this trick works it
would worth a try unless it actually doesn't.  BTW-Was getting the Van to
TDC by tugging a little in the v-belt a couple of weeks ago and got my
finger wrapped in the pulley for a few secs.  Kinda like zipping up a little
quick and you can't even vocalize for a second...sorry ladies.  Anyway,
guess you gotta be pretty quick with the screwdriver.
Michael in San Antonio
91GL AT 'Gringo'
73 Beetle


On Mon, Oct 26, 2009 at 5:10 PM, David Beierl <dbeierl@attglobal.net> wrote:

> At 05:28 PM 10/26/2009, Scott Daniel - Turbovans wrote:
>
>> where this can be useful is not having to readjust the belt tension going
>> back together.
>> Scott
>>
>
> I think it's a cute trick, but I notice the belt wasn't at working
> tension beforehand.  And if it were, forcing the belt over the sheave
> that way is directly contrary to proper vee-belt handling -- the
> thing is specifically designed to not stretch, and it's liable to
> rupture internal strength members.  The generator mount and bearings
> might not be extra-happy either.
>
> Which says nothing at all about what would happen if it went wrong
> and the screwdriver took a fast turn around the generator sheave
> while you were holding it.
>
> So -- short of being stuck beside the road at midnight with a belt
> off and nothing but a screwdriver -- I give it five points for flash,
> minus four for danger and minus five for usefulness.
>
> Yrs,
> David
>