Belt Adjustment on Alternator or GeneratorBelt Adjustment on Alternator or Generator
By Jim Thompson
Question from Customer: I have a 66 Bug and was wondering how to tighten my Gen belt, any help would be appreciated.
Answer: Every Volkswagen Beetle, Bus (to 71) and Type 3 is supplied with a set of thin shims that go between the two Alternator/Generator Pulley halves, usually about 8 pieces. Subtracting the number of shims between the two pulley halves tighten the belt, adding more loosens the belt. Shims not used between the two pulley halves are usually placed on the front of the pulley behind the thick thrust washer and nut - don't throw them away.
My experience is when a new 9.5x905mm Continental OEM Belt is installed 4 or 5 shims between the two pulley halves are needed to properly tighten/tension the belt. After a break-in of let's say about 100 miles, the tension should be checked and adjusted accordingly. Usually the belt will loosen up a bit, so 1 or 2 shims are usually subtracted from between the two pulley halves to accomplish this. |