1975 318ci Question on replacing accessory drive belts

[JWKetron]

Good evening,

Arrived home from a night cruise to a ticking noise under the hood. Let's say I was lucky, discovered the original accessory drive belts are finally giving away. The alternator belt was hanging on by a few threads. Looking to replace both alternator and power steering belts with gates replacements. I was able to loosen the alternator although still playing around with the power steering pump. Any suggestions on releasing tension for both so I can change out the belts. The 1975 chiltons book states the alternator belt should give 1/2 inch at center to ensure correct tension is on the belt. Is this the same for the power steering belt as well? They don't really mention that one.

Thanks for the help,

Jon

 

[WileERobby]

You loosen the mounting bolt and the tensioning bolt. You replace the belts. You adjust the component without overdue stress by the belt. Tighten the adjusting bolt. Tighten the mounting bolt.

 

[lemondana]

You need a flat washer or the correct concave washer on your top PS pump adjustment bolt. Otherwise the hex on the bolt will dig into the sides of the adjustment slot possibly spreading it apart.

 

[JWKetron]

Thank you gentlemen, working on it now!

Jon

 

[JWKetron]

Success with the belts and added a flat washer to the power steering pump bracket bolt. Upon start up no squeal. I did my best to gauge 1/2 give at longest center flat point of each belt to gauge tension.

Thank you gentlemen for the help.