Can't get the new mechanical tensioner on!

anbran · Post by **anbran** » 15 Feb 2008, 19:58

I've just installed the new TB, water pump, and idler pulley...

I am now trying to get the mechanical tensioner on...

Whats the trick??

1998 V70

Post by **MadeInJapan** » 15 Feb 2008, 20:40

Since mine has the automatic (hydraulic) tensioner I have no experience with the tensioner you have but have the ability to look things up in places you probably don't know about. What exactly is the issue. Be more specific (screws not tightening, etc.) and I'll try to respond.
Regards,
MIJ

anbran · Post by **anbran** » 15 Feb 2008, 22:02

I can't seem to line up the tensioner with the hole for the bolt...If I put the tensioner on first then try to get the belt around it...its too difficult

I'm thinking I should get a helper to hold the thing and line it up from the open wheel well...and then I could slide the bolt in while I'm at the top of the engine....

Not sure what else to do...

Post by **MadeInJapan** » 16 Feb 2008, 04:16

From reading instructions in VADIS, you do need to install the tensioner first (before the belt). Get it in place (if this takes a friend who has another set of hands, that's what it might take). After it's in place, slacken off the tensioner center screw slightly. Hold the center screw still while using a 6mm allen wrench to turn the eccentric clockwise to the 10:00 position. This should give you enough play in the tensioner to install the belt. Once it's on you can re-tighten the tensioner (counter clockwise with the allen wrench) to the correct position for the temperature.

Other than the above, this might help:
http://volvospeed.com/Repair/ManualTensioner.php

Post by **pfeener** » 16 Feb 2008, 17:00

I just did my 98 with a mechanical tensioner. What MIJ said is correct. I rotated the eccentric on the tensioner so the belt would have the most slack. I ran the belt from the crank pulley up the right hand side to the intake cam, over to the exhaust cam, around the water pump pulley and held it tight with my hand in the position where the tensioner goes. Next I rotated the crank pulley just a little in the CW direction to take up any slack on the right hand side and top of the belt, then I pushed the tensioner up under the belt, made sure it fit over the rib on the block and threaded the center screw into the block. Hope this helps.