Inserted in this month’s Autobiz Magazine is a simple and practical tool from ContiTech, the Belt Wear Tester.

 

This very useful little device can provide you with essential information on multiple V-ribbed belt wear and help to identify instances where belts may require replacement, outside of normal manufacture recommended change intervals.

 

Multiple V-ribbed belts wear as a result of the effects of heat, deposits and operationally induced abrasion in the ancillary component drive. This wear is not always visible with the naked eye. ContiTech’s Belt Wear Tester (BWT) reliably detects the degree of wear by checking the profile geometry of the individual ribs. This enables professionals to determine precisely whether the multiple V-ribbed belt needs to be changed. For example, when a belt is worn the side of the tester will not sit proud of the ribs and when the profile notches are inserted in the belt, if it is in good condition there should be minimal lateral movement. Instructions are included with the tester and you can see a demonstration video of the to use the ContiTech BWT by searching "ContiTech belt wear tester” on YouTube.

 

ContiTech stress that use of this tester is for guidance only. The test does not replace the specified servicing intervals, but assists workshop professionals in assessing the belt condition.