Handy tips to help in replacing your tractor belts!
Installation Warning:
Always disconnect power supply to machine before removing or installing sheaves or belts.
Never force
the belt into a sheave with a screwdriver or wedge. You will rupture the envelope of fabric and break
the cords.
Rules of V-Belt Tensioning
- The ideal tension is the lowest tension at which the belt will not slip under peak load conditions.
- Check the belt tension frequently during the first 24-48 hours of run-in operation.
- Do not over-tension belts. This shortens belt and bearing life.
- Inspect the V-drive periodically. Retension belts if they are slipping.
- Maintain sheave alignment with a strong straight-edge tool while tensioning V-belts.
V-Belt Maintenance
V-belt drive maintenance is not complicated. Inspecting a V-belt is simply a matter of looking and listening. After belt installation or maintenance, inspect the drive and watch it run.
What to Look For:
- Oil and Grease: Liquids will increase the chance a belt will fail prematurely
- Dirt: Impairs traction and increases belt wear
- Added Loads: Shorten belt life
- Belt Guards: Ensure cleanliness and safety
- Cracking: Does not reduce tensile strength; larger sheaves and idlers may reduce cracking
- Belt Dressing: Do not use any type of belt dressing
- Vibration: AKA "Whipping"; Caused by not enough tension
- Heat: Causes overcuring, which will shorten belt life
- Tension: Proper tension on belts is important
- Belt Turnover: Indicates misalignment, worn sheaves or excessive vibration
- Change in Rideout: Indicates uneven belt wear or worn sheaves
- Lateral Vibration: AKA "Snaking"; Indicates not enough tension
- Belt Wear: Wear on belt side-walls indicates consistant slippage, excessive dust or rough sheaves
- Foreign Matter: Can cause excessive wear or breakage
What to Listen For:
- Squeal: Usually indicates insufficient belt tension or overloading
- Chirp or Squeak: Usually indicates a dry bearing; realigning the idler may help
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