Belt Squeal After Alternator Replacement

[omjamal]

Hi all,

I just replaced the alternator in my 93 Escort, and now I have a strange problem. The drive belt is way too loose, and I can't get it any tighter. It drives, barely, but it is squealing quite a bit, so I don't know how long the belt will take it. The tensioner doesn't move smoothly, but it is stuck at maximum tension, so if anything, shouldn't the belt be too tight? The only thing I can think of is maybe the new alternator has the wrong size pulley on it, but I don't know of any way to check, and I have never heard of such a thing happening.

Any thoughts? Help would be much appreciated.

[catback23]

They should have check the pulley and alternator when you took it in to get a replacement. You should have left with the exact same measurements you came in with. If the tensioner is at the end of it's travel then the pulley is too small. If the tensioner can tighten the belt more but doesn't hold it there the then tensioner may need replacement.

Next time when you get parts make sure you get the exact same part and if they aren't exactly identical make sure all the critical measurements are the same.

[Jet-Lee]

get a smaller belt...the smaller pulley on the alternator will allow it to charge better at lower rpm's