As every technician knows, the consequences of timing belt failure can be catastrophic for the engine and costly to the workshop. In addition, an ever increasing number of ancillary components such as power steering pumps, air conditioning compressors, water pumps and starter-alternators, are being driven by auxiliary belting, which means that the correct installation of both timing and auxiliary belts and their tensioners cannot be overstated.

To aid the technician and avoid expensive claims from aggrieved motorists, Dayco has a comprehensive range of tools to ensure that its OEM quality belts and related components are always fitted correctly.

Correct installation does not just mean replacing the belt, the technician’s job is not over until the belt is then adjusted to the correct tension, which is of paramount importance.

To achieve the proper belt tension is not something that can be just left to chance or even to the judgement of an experienced technician. Instead, it needs to be accurately measured to ensure that it conforms to the vehicle manufacturers strict guidelines and optimises the performance of the engine.

To take any doubt out of the tensioning procedure, Dayco offer technicians and workshops the Dayco ‘Tensiometer’ belt tension meter. This valuable device can be used for timing belts or auxiliary belts and will accurately measure their tension, so that technicians can guarantee that the correct belt tension is achieved.

Suitable for all power transmission belts, irrespective of their construction, the Tensiometer is an electronic device that uses an optical sensor positioned on the back of the belt, to measure the frequency of the free branch so that the technician can achieve the right belt tension.

The tool is easy to use and simply needs the relevant test code for the particular application, which can be found on the belt’s packaging, to be entered and the belt
vibrated. If following the frequency test the reading is displayed as ‘OK’ the belt tension is obviously fine, but if the result reads + or – three, the belt will need to be reset and the procedure repeated until the correct tension is achieved.

For further information on the OEM quality power transmission products in the Dayco range call Team P R Reilly today on 01-832-0006 or visit www.dayco.com.