The alternator fan and alternator pulley should never move relative to each other. If it does, the alternator nut is loose. If you were able to turn the fan and the pulley together as a unit, then the belt is slipping, that means the belt tension is loose, which can result in belt squeal when the alternator is under load.

__________________
85 300D turbo pristine w 157k when purchased 161K now
83 300 D turbo 297K runs great. SOLD!
83 240D 4 spd manual- parted out then junked

[QUOTE=Shawnb;3674485]With the car off, I can easily turn the fan. The pulley doesn't move at all[/QUOTE)


Not normal in my experience. You may have to put a socket and using a rachet and some judgement or a wrench It just should not turn the alternator easily in relationship to the belt.

I tried tightening the nut, and the pulley kept turning, but the belt never moved.



I also noticed this! Check out my sweet socket motor mount! Changing this ASAP!

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When you tried tightening the alternator pulley nut if the pulley did move pretty easily and not the belt the belt is loose or defective.


In my limited experience when the v section of the pulleys including the main one on the end of the crankshaft have rust in the groove sides. I have had to deal with both frequent belt and adjustment issues for some time.


In my climate sitting around too much seems to generate that issue. I in no way thinking this is your problem. Still for many of our younger members.


They only have experience with serpentine belt systems. The old v belt systems do require perhaps not frequent adjustment but occasional adjustment. Normal maintenance.


Also if you replace a belt throw the old one in the trunk if still usable in an emergency. Out on the road you may not find a quick replacement one if the new belt fails in the future easily enough. This applies particularily to the belt that drives the water pump and engine fan usually.


Simply because the v belt tensioning system is not a self compensating type.

The belt is not suppose to move. If you can turn the pulley by grabbing the fan, your belt is loose and is slipping against the pulley.You need to adjust and tighten the belt!

__________________
85 300D turbo pristine w 157k when purchased 161K now
83 300 D turbo 297K runs great. SOLD!
83 240D 4 spd manual- parted out then junked

Guys,


I seriously appreciate the swift feedback. Current at my office, with limited tools. Going to take a stab at it shortly.


Thanks!