In most engines, you will find anywhere from one to four belts that run some of probably the most basic parts of your engine. The belts are easy to forget about — they do not require attention as often as oil changes — however they are incredibly essential. What is the best way to care for engine belts?
The belt basics
Most belts in autos are made from rubber or a combination of rubber and plastic. Rather than just snapping, belts will usually crack, decay, or wear. The tension the belts are under combined with the hot-and-cold conditions they generally run under means that they’ll stretch and break. Belts are usually used to run every little thing from the fan to the cooling system. Each component, in older engines, was run by a separate belt. In most modern vehicles, there is one long serpentine belt that runs anything.
Switching out the belts
A belt that squeaks or squeals means that it is stretching out. Every time you check your oil or take your car to the mechanic, you should have your belts checked. Replace all the belts if you’re replacing one – they’re cheap, and it is better to be safe. With some experience, replacing a belt is relatively easy. First, discover the diagram of the belt and copy it down. Loosen up the tension within the belts, then remove them. Place the new belt within the engine, and tighten up the tension.
How about dressing the belt?
There is a theory that “dressing” a belt — lubricating it with a specialty spray or liquid — can help it last longer. This theory only kind of works, though. If you dress a belt, it will stop squeaking for a when. A belt making all kinds of noise is a warning – so before you dress it, you should check things out. The only time you need to ever dress your belt is in case you are trying to keep things a lot more quiet while you are on your way to the mechanic.
