Tightening the belts on Westerbeke 10 two?

[Todd Julius]

I've just purchased a O'Day 272LE with a Westerbeke Diesel. The Engine runs fine but it squeals a bit before it warms up. I'm guessing it is the alternator belt. I'd love some advice on how to tighten the belt (or advice on what else it could be). It's my first diesel and I'm unsure how to begin or how difficult it is. Should it be left to the boatyard? Any help is appreciated.Todd

 

[Don Evans]

Tighten Perhaps...

But check to see if it is glazed (glassy like), due to slippage and need of replacing. They are cheap enough, and you could use the old one as a spare. I have a Volvo, and the bracket has a bolt that one loosens. I then take a tire iron and wedge it between the bottom of the alternator and the engine casing and lift the alternator and tighten the nut. Thats about it for me. Most alternators are bolted on about the same way. Just find a way to leveredge the alternator against something non breakable.Don

 

[Todd Julius]

Tighten perhaps...

Thanks Don. I checked for glazing and the belt itself looked fine. I'll tackle loosening the bolt and moving the alternator this weekend. Wish me luck...Todd