Despite doing so much, most of us forget the serpentine belt even exists — let alone that its tension matters. But it does. A lot. Too tight and it'll grind bearings to dust. Too loose and you're ...

Working as a General Motors and ASE Master Technician, teaching automotive technology and being involved in the auto repair industry for over 50 years, I saw how two, three or more “V”-drive belts ...

Over-tensioning shortens not only the life of V-belts but also that of the sheaves, electric motor, and driven equipment bearings. In extreme cases, it can even bend or break a motor shaft.