L series timing belt tensioning
Posted: Sat Jun 02, 2012 11:50 am
When I put the new timing belts on the L series I was not entirely happy with the amount of tension I put on the belts.
It is supposed to be something like 25Nm with the tensioners loosened off and with the tension applied to each belt the tensioner springs take up the slack and then they are tightened.
I have 3 tension wrenches of various ranges but 2 of them do not do left hand tensioning and do not have a ratchet head. The 3rd wrench I thought could do LH tensions but while it has a wratchet it does not do the LH tension which must be done especially on the LH belt.
I basically got the feel for what 25Nm felt like and then applied this in the left hand direction on the cam pulley till it felt "right".
Is there a better method to achieve the right tension on both belts ?
I dont want to over tighten the belts which will reduce their life.
It is supposed to be something like 25Nm with the tensioners loosened off and with the tension applied to each belt the tensioner springs take up the slack and then they are tightened.
I have 3 tension wrenches of various ranges but 2 of them do not do left hand tensioning and do not have a ratchet head. The 3rd wrench I thought could do LH tensions but while it has a wratchet it does not do the LH tension which must be done especially on the LH belt.
I basically got the feel for what 25Nm felt like and then applied this in the left hand direction on the cam pulley till it felt "right".
Is there a better method to achieve the right tension on both belts ?
I dont want to over tighten the belts which will reduce their life.