alternator belt turns to dust

[Dennis Lindauer]

I have a Universal diesal, 10 HP in my 28 O'Day. I have tried replacing the (fan) belt on the engine, only to have the new belt turn to black dust over a period of time. The alternator has been tensioned as much as possible. I have tried installing a smaller belt, but the next size down is too small and won't go over the pulleys. Does anyone have a solution to, what would seem, a simple problem?

 

[Don Evans]

Check Alignement

All belts give off some rubber dust as they wear. If its excessive and breaks before its time I would have the alignement of the alternator pulley against the engine pulley checked. If its off it will wear the sides of the belt off. Careful about the smaller size as if its to tight you will be loading those front end engine bearings and eventually wear them out. Thats a lot more money than replacing a belt. I still have the original belt that came with the engine (about 12 years).Don

 

[james rohr]

Are you buying automotive belts?

Sounds like you may be getting belts that may have the wrong taper for your pulleys.