Shredded drive belt

[Andy]

Hi, I have just had my auxillary drive belt replaced last Friday, and it shredded itself again on Monday.
There were no warning signs or noises, so I was hoping to find maybe a worn bearing, or something that would give me a clue what has caused the problem - the first belt that failed was only fitted a couple of years ago.
The only possible thing I can think of is that the power steering pump seems a bit stiff, certainly not free running like the alternator, but I don't know if this is normal.
Anyone got any ideas please?

 

[Anonymous]

The power steering pump is not as free spinning as an alternator so i dont think it will be that as long as you can turn it with 2 fingers:Are any pulleys damaged that can dig into the belt causing premature wear?

 

[Andy]

Thanks for the reply, the pump moves easily enough, although it doesn't seem to spin so easily as the alternator, I had been wondering if it might have got a bit stiffer when running. I can't see any damage to the pulleys,although the steering pump does have a little end float.
I'm beginning to think the problem may be something much simpler - I found that some of the insulating pad from the inner wing has broken up, some actually torn away as if it could have got caught in the belt - fingers crossed, that could be it.

 

[Anonymous]

Its possible, especially if it got embedded into the belt

 

[GTVone60]

Had this problem myself. Bulk head insulation was damaged by the shredded belt whipping against it. Turned out it was crankshaft pulley had gone- an easy fix. After that was replaced a few months later the new belt then split longitudinally- as luck would have it a piece of tar got stuck in the middle groove on the crankshaft pulley. Hope this helps.

 

[Anonymous]

as above. I would also say crankshaft pulley. Had the same thing happen to me. Cost me £80 to replace.