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Drive Belt and Tension Idler

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Old 01-18-2019, 05:15 PM
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chasboy
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Default Drive Belt and Tension Idler

I hope this doesn’t seem silly, but to eliminate 2 possible sources of engine “chirping” I’m replacing my drive belt and tension idler. I’ve done some research and there seems to be strong recommendations for the Goodyear(now Continental ) Gatorback belt as the best. Is there a brand of tensioner that could be considered superior to stock?
Thanks!
Old 01-18-2019, 06:21 PM
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El original
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Belt chirping can be caused by any of the belt driven components or pulleys. I had one that was caused by the water pump bearings piling up (on my C3) Most are quick to blame the belt when is is just as likely another issue. Good luck.

Last edited by El original; 01-18-2019 at 06:23 PM.
Old 01-18-2019, 06:25 PM
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chasboy
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I already ran the engine without the belt. It’s either the belt or the tensioner pulley at this point.
Old 01-18-2019, 06:47 PM
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pjdbm
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I used genuine AC Delco tensioner & pulley from Rockauto. They list two grades and I always choose professional grade. I also used the Gator belt, absolute silence from the engine bay as far as chirps
Old 01-18-2019, 06:54 PM
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'Shifter
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I went with a mechanical Katech tensioner, after seeing every brand, including a GM unit, being built in Korea. Idlers I went with Dayco, being made in America. The belt I chose was a Gates Racing Blue, which I believe is no longer available, which is too bad, as it is the best belt I've ever used. (I used to sell Goodyear/Continental).

Old 01-18-2019, 08:15 PM
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1blkc4
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check your harmonic balancer for wobble
Old 01-18-2019, 09:50 PM
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Nevermind.

Last edited by Vetteman Jack; 01-18-2019 at 09:50 PM.
Old 01-18-2019, 09:51 PM
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gmanflying
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Originally Posted by 'Shifter
I went with a mechanical Katech tensioner, after seeing every brand, including a GM unit, being built in Korea. Idlers I went with Dayco, being made in America. The belt I chose was a Gates Racing Blue, which I believe is no longer available, which is too bad, as it is the best belt I've ever used. (I used to sell Goodyear/Continental).

I did the Katech as well, and its great!!!!!

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