I don't quite know how to word this question.

I have a 1st Gen. 89 model engine that is going in a Ford ton truck.

I have custom-built an alternator bracket that mounts the Ford alternator in relatively the same position as the Dodge alternator.

The air-conditioner compressor has been removed; so, basically, the belt will be routed the same as it would be on a Dodge without air.

My question is, how much travel is taken out of the tensioner when the belt is mounted?? i.e. how tight should the tensioner be with the belt on the engine?? At which extreme of it's travel should it be with the proper length belt??

I need to know this so I can measure for proper belt length, in case it works out to be different than O.E.M. length for a non-a/c Dodge.

 

Generally the tension is in the middle position with the belt on. You have to be able to move the tensioner in the tighter direction to remove the belt, so make sure you have some play there.

 

Every tensoiner I've work on [ trucks & cars ] has had indicaters on the tensoiner for wear limits [ streching ] about 1/2-1" between new & used , if you look closely you'll see a single mark on a surface that pivots and 2 marks that the single is inbetween when the belt is mounted.

 

Thanks for the info.

I will look for the wear marks as this is the first time I have known they existed.