To the list,
I am preparing to swap my alternator out with a new rebuilt Lucas 15 ACR
unit on my 1972 Triumph TR6.
I had to replace the water pump recently, which required me to adjust
the fan belt tension on reinstall. I do notice that the pulleys do not
seem to line up as well as they did before, and I see that this has been
discussed on the list. Both the water pump and rebuilt alternator were
purchased from TRF.
The book states 3/4-1", which is where I am now. My red light is
definitely less happy than it was before the water pump, had it tested
and it is putting out 14 volts and 30 amps. I am replacing this unit
because it does appear it has some issues, and I will have it rebuilt.
I also installed an Optima battery during this time.
My question, Star Auto Electric in California says to adjust the fan
belt as follows:
You should tighten the fan belt just enough so the belt does not slip on
the generator pulley. To test for possible pulley slippage with the
vehicle's motor stopped, take your hand and with one of your fingers
apply rotating pressure on one of the generator's fan blades and try to
see if you are able to move the fan and pulley. If this action is
possible and you can turn the fan and pulley without the belt moving you
need to retighten the belt a little more. I know this sounds tedious and
time consuming, however if you want to save the rear bushing from
premature failure I cannot stress enough the importance of correct fan
belt tension for these types of generators.
Currently with 3/4-1" play, I can indeed move the fan with one finger.
I am toying with the idea of tightening the belt before I swap to see
what impact it has on the red light. It used to just be dim at idle
(normal), but now sometimes it is glowing red.
Anyone have an opinion on the proper tension without be so tight that
damage to the water pump and my new alternator occur?
Thanks,
Craig H. Nicholls
Vienna, VA
1972 Triumph TR6
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