Technical 1.1 timing belt tensioning

[grandmasterflash]

Hi ive replaced the timing belt on a mates punto 1.1 8v, im just wondering how you tension the belt. The haynes says to use a pair of right-angled circlip pliers in the two holes on the tensioner pulley. Does this really work? I was thinking about making two studs to fit in and use mole grips or something to tension. Anyone got any ideas? Thanks

 

[Punto.Power]

To tension the belt the pulley has a concentric sprung centre. You set this correctly you need some circlip pliers.Turn the centre of the pulley until the 2 notches on the pulley centre line up.This make sure the spring tension is correct. When they line up, tighten the nut that holds the tensioner in place. Ensure the belt is sat correctly on the toothed wheels. Another way to check the belt tension is to try to turn the belt through 90 degrees along it’s longest section. If there is some resistance and it will only just twist by 90 degrees then you have done it correctly. Once you have done this then you can put everything back together. I used the circlip pliers as im a begginer didnt wanna try anything else..

 

[reddy4bed]

Did that job some months back, I remember the 2 holes, but there was not a sprung centre, just a solid concentric pulley. Surely if it was spring loaded the spring should set the tension. I used a couple of bolts in the holes and a lever and tightened until it felt ok, though I did feel it for tension before I replaced it. Perhaps I'm talking about some other model here?.

 

[vtec]

All you have to do is place the handle end of a screwdriver in between the tensioner and I think the engine mount and pull it towards you to tighten up the belt, don over do it or you'll probably damage the belt.,.,.

 

[dave]

its the 16v that has the sprung center

 

[faster4_tec]

yeah, 8v are just a bearing with a concentric centre, you don't need circlip pliers, you can get more than enough tension with your hand