The pair of belts on the alternator/water pump are not adjusting to the same tension. I replaced them today with brand new belts (new & old were both Continentals) - same thing. The inside belt has more slack than the one closest to the radiator.

I've switched alternators (& pulleys) - same thing.

Any ideas? I'm inclined to get it into my Indy to take a look. I ended up leaving just one belt on the alternator as the combination was making a heck of a racket when cold.

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83 300d - 390k

I had the same problem when I replaced mine a couple of weeks ago. Purchased the belts at the same store, same part number but were different lengths. Have them measured and make sure the pair you put on are the same length.

John

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Certified Registered Nurse Anesthetist (CRNA)
2002 F250 powerstroke with Plantdrive WVO conversion
1983 300SD 190K miles ,sold
2006 E320 CDI

Thanks for the suggestion John - I've flipped position of the existing belts. Inside is loose, radiator side is tight - doesn't matter which belt; it's the position that's causing the problem.

I've a high mileage vehicle - never noticed problem until belts disentigrated on my daughter's drive home from school late last fall. Lost a/c, power steering and one of two alternator belts. I think the a/c clutch bearing went out.

When I replaced the belts that weekend I noticed a different tension. Seems worse now?

Ideas

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83 300d - 390k

Sounds like a problem with the alternator bracket.

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DJ


84 300D Turbodiesel 190K with 4 speed manual sold in 03/2012