How To Distinguish Between Good And Bad Car Belts

Nov 20, 2020

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As an important part of automobile operation, belts connect various parts. In the event of breakage or slippage, the related air-conditioning compressor, power steering oil pump, and alternator will all stop working. Therefore, it is very necessary to master the identification method of the pros and cons of automobile belts. The editor will share the identification methods of the pros and cons of car belts and how to distinguish whether the car belts are damaged.


1. Identify the pros and cons when buying

True: No smell

Fake: pungent smell of gum

Smelling is the first step in the identification of the quality of car belts, and it is also a more effective method. Usually inferior rubber products will have a pungent smell of gum, which can be easily distinguished by car owners with a little attention.


2. Take a look

As with the above reasons, counterfeit products usually make fuss about materials and processes in order to save costs. The products produced are generally rough and the printed fonts are relatively fuzzy.


3. Contrast

Repair shops or stores that sell counterfeit and inferior belt products usually have the same specifications but several prices. It is recommended to carefully compare these products with different prices before making a choice.

The best way to deal with counterfeit and shoddy products is to choose formal purchase channels. Most of the genuine parts of auto manufacturers are only sold through 4S stores to distinguish counterfeit and inferior goods from the gray market. Genuine parts are not sold through non-approved distribution channels. Therefore, it is best to choose the corresponding 4S shop when replacing the car belt.


Identify the damage during use

As mentioned above, car belts are a kind of consumable parts. As their working hours increase, car belts and related accessories will find wear and aging. Therefore, it is very important to understand the usage status of automobile belts in a correct and timely manner. Below, the editor teaches you how to distinguish the damage of the belt from the sound and appearance.


1. Listen to the sound

When you hear the belt squeak, it generally means that the friction coefficient of the belt surface is greatly reduced, and it has been excessively worn. If there is a noise when the vehicle is under load, you might as well observe one of the transmission belts. You will find that the resistance or elasticity on the automatic belt tensioner or belt tensioner will increase abnormally.

When you hear the belt rumbling, it means that the belt is shaking. This situation is generally due to the transmission belt being too loose, stretched too long, or the belt tensioner or elastic pulley is damaged.


2. Look at the belt changes

The belt becomes longer:

The first step to check whether the belt is normal is to check the tension of the belt. Use your fingers to forcefully press between the pulleys. If the pressure is about 10kg, the belt tension is about 10mm. If the amount is too large, the belt tension is insufficient.

Insufficient tension may be due to loose tightening wheels, or the belt may become longer. If the belt becomes longer, it means that the belt has been deformed and needs to be replaced in time.


3. The belt is loose and cracked

If the belt is found to have reduced hardness, abrasion, fiber breakage, or cracks, cracks, burrs, etc., it indicates that the belt has been damaged and cannot be used.


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