How can you measure the correct tension for the drive belt or power steering belt on 4-cyl. engines? In other words, when do you stop turning the adjustment bolt? I know the belts must be tight, but not too tight. The .25 inch measurement with the thumb is recommended, but I don't like that method. Any other ideas as to know exactly when to stop applying tension to the drive/power steering belts?

 

There's a tool for measuring belt tension. Personally it's pretty low on my wish-list for DIY because I just try to err on the loose side. If it begins slipping & squeeking, I just tighten it a bit (don't have to "go back" to the mechanic). If it's too tight it'll "someday" cause premature wear on alternator bearings & stuff like that.

 

Yeh, that's what I usually do. I wish my car had the automatic tensioner like the v6 accords do.

 

Excellent! I did not know this before.

I bought 2 gates belt tension tester, $20 each. But they are not acurate.

 

yesterday, I loose power steering belt a little, the car is running fine. Then loose the alternator belt, it started to squeeking. I tighten it a little every time until the squeeking noise is gone.

I found it is hard to measure the tesnsion. Measure the deflation is also hard, how much force to press? And the space is very tight. Even using honda tesion gauge($300), I do not see how can put the tension gauge in place, remove the engine mount?