         
Many General Motors vehicles use a single serpentine belt to drive all engine accessories, which are usually rigidly mounted. An adjustable or spring-loaded belt tensioner controls proper tension on the serpentine belt. Note: Belt routings may vary, depending on specific engine models. Inspection: Routine inspection of the serpentine belt may reveal cracks in the belt ribs. These cracks will not impair belt performance and should not be considered a problem requiring belt replacement. However, the belt should be replaced if: Frayed edges are apparent, or Belt slip occurs, or A section of the belt ribs is missing, or Belt tension, caused by belt stretch, is below minimum with the tensioner properly adjusted within its operating range. Note: A frayed belt indicates that one or more pulleys could be out of alignment. To test serpentine drive belt tension: Run engine for 10 minutes. Shut off engine and check belt tension between any two pulleys, using a belt tension gauge. Run engine for 30 seconds. Repeat step 2. Run engine for 30 seconds. Repeat step 2. Compute the average of the three readings. IMPORTANT: Maximum serpentine belt tension should be between 30 and 50 ft.-lb. (40 and 68 n*M). Replace the serpentine belt if the belt tensioner is within its operating range and the serpentine belt tension is below 30 ft.-lb. (40n*M). EXCESSIVE BELT TENSION A combination of excessive belt tension and high underhood temperatures will damage generator bearings and pulley assemblies within a short period of time. Therefore, proper care must be taken to avoid overtorqueing the tensioner when installing or reinstalling an engine accessory, the serpentine belt, or the belt tensioner. Source: AC Delco TSB #1.2G-114 
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