How to adjust the timing belt tension?

A timing belt is needed to keep multiple components in your engine in sync and prevent collisions between valves and pistons. For it to work properly, it must be properly aligned with the pulleys and idler rollers and also have the optimal tension. In this article, we will answer all your questions about timing belt tension!

⛓️ What tension is required for the timing belt?

The timing belt is shaped like a rubber toothed belt and is held in place by tensioner pulley and roller system... Thus, it is they who are responsible for the tension of the latter.

Correct adjustment of this tension is important to ensure correct timing of the timing belt. Really, a loose or too tight strap wears out prematurely and may break Anytime. This may cause a malfunction. crankshaft, injection pump, water pump,camshaft and in the most serious cases, engine failure.

The optimal timing belt tension depends on the car model and the characteristics of its engine. Typically, the ideal timing belt tension is between 60 and 140 Hz... To find out the exact cost of your car, you can consult with service book from this. It contains all the manufacturer's recommendations for your vehicle.

For example, on Citroën and Peugeot engines, the timing belt tension is between 75 and 85 Hz.

💡 Timing Belt Tension: Hertz or Decanewton?

Timing belt tension can be measured in two different units:

• The unit of measurement is in Hertz. : It is used to measure the timing belt tension as a frequency. It is the unit of measure that you will most often find in a car's maintenance log;
• Unit of measurement SEEM (Sud Est Electro Mécanique) : This unit is more refined than the first in terms of measuring the timing belt tension. Thus, it takes into account the thickness as well as the bending of the belt to express its tensile force in Newtons.

If you get measurements in decanewtons, you will need to convert them to newtons. Thus, a decanewton (daN) is equivalent to 10 newtons. Likewise, if you get the voltage in kilohertz, it will need to be converted to hertz. Therefore, you should know that one hertz is equal to 0,001 kilohertz.

Many lookup tables will help you find out the equivalence of voltage measurements expressed in SEEM, in hertz and in Newtons.

👨‍🔧 How to check the timing belt tension?

If you have a fairly new car, the timing belt will be equipped with automatic tensioners whose role is to optimally stretch it. However, for old cars there is manual tensioners and the timing belt tension can be checked manually.

There are two different methods for checking the timing belt tension, so you have a choice between:

1. Using the tonometer : This tool allows you to reliably measure the voltage and correct the latter if it is too low or too high. You can buy it from a car dealer, DIY store, or various internet sites. Several models are available, you will have a choice between manual, electronic or laser blood pressure monitors;
2. Belt frequency measurement : Using a microphone and software such as a tuner, you will be able to read the frequency of your belt. The easiest way is to use your phone to do this and move the strap as if you were tuning a musical instrument. So, you have to make it vibrate a few inches from the microphone.

🛠️ Is it possible to measure the timing belt tension without a gauge?

Thus, the method of measuring the frequency of your belt using a telephone allows you to measure the tension of the latter without any device. However, for accuracy, it is preferable to use a tonometer.

Indeed, these devices are designed, in particular, to measure the tension of the timing belt. Thus, they allow you to measure the value with maximum accuracy in order to properly tension the belt on your car.

If you frequently perform this operation on your car, it is best to purchase a blood pressure monitor. Depending on the model and brand, it costs from 15 € and 300 €.

Correctly adjusting your vehicle's timing belt tension is important to preserve your engine and ensure the longevity of your vehicle. As soon as it appears to be severely stretched or misaligned, you should quickly check its position before it worsens.