Typical air conditioner drive components
1 - tensioner; 2 - brackets; 3 - compressor.
The air conditioning compressor is driven by a V-belt from the crankshaft pulley. All equipment driven by the belt is rigidly fixed. The belt tension is maintained by a spring tensioner. The drive belt tensioner provides tension for belts with a wide range of lengths, but this range has limits. Using a belt whose length is beyond the adjustment range of the tensioner can result in poor belt tension and/or failure of the tensioner.
CAUTION: During regular inspection of the belt, cracks may be found in the ribs. These cracks do not affect the operation of the belt and therefore should not be considered a reason for replacing the belt. However, if the belt slips or several sections of the ribs are missing, the belt must be replaced.
Checking the technical condition/belt tension
If belt burning is noticed; check that the tensioner and belt are in the same plane and that the edges of the belt are not rubbing against the sides of the tensioner pulley. If the tensioner or idler pulleys make a high-pitched noise, check the bearings for damage.
To check that the belt length is correct, check the position of the tensioner marks. If the belt is too long or the length is outside the tensioner adjustment range, replace the belt.