1996 850 GLT New drive belt too big or .....something

fisherminisher · Post by **fisherminisher** » 19 Jul 2014, 11:18

I have a 1996 850 GLT wagon that purchased really cheap. It drove about 40 miles then died due to a bad alternator. Thanks previous owner. I went to replace the alternator and since I was down there I did my first timing belt/water pump and components replacement. I put everything back and went to put in a brand new drive belt. After weaving it through the proper course around the pulleys the belt felt really slack. I let the tensioner back into place and the belt had LOTS of slack. Like so much slack as if it were never tensioned at all but I let the tensioner down myself-twice. So I went through all the trouble shooting a person like me would do. I have a 1994 850 wagon just like this one and checked the belt routing and it matched. I took the new belt out and checked the correct length even though this is what I do before putting a brand new belt into any car. So I grabbed my old belt and they were the exact length. I have no idea what else to do. Is there a way that one of the pulleys moved magically or am I just crazy (don't answer that one)?

Post by **erikv11** » 19 Jul 2014, 11:25

Where are you located?

Check this: http://www.ipdusa.com/products/5656/104 ... 70-v70-c70

fisherminisher · Post by **fisherminisher** » 19 Jul 2014, 11:29

I live in Fort Dodge, Iowa

Post by **dosbricks** » 19 Jul 2014, 19:54

If you are routing the new belt like your '94 and it's too long, the belt on that car is likely prior to the change in belt length and routing. You need to route the new belt like the diagram shown on the ipd link which erikv11 furnished. And next time you replace the belt on the '94, also route it this new way.

And don't feel bad, a lot of professional mechanics were scratching their heads over this same question when the new longer belts came out.

fisherminisher · Post by **fisherminisher** » 20 Jul 2014, 18:41

Awesome. That was the problem. I routed it the way it showed in the diagram and everything worked out. Thanks so much for everyone's help. I'm starting this thing on the side where I work on Volvo wagons and resell them. This one is turning out great. Thanks again.

Post by **erikv11** » 21 Jul 2014, 00:05

If you find an NA that needs an engine then let me know by PM here, I am 90 minutes from you and have a very nicely rebuilt engine looking for a home.