Drive Belt Auto-Tensioner Inspection

Special Tools Required 

Belt Tension Release Tool Snap-on YA9317* or equivalent

*Available through the Acura Tool and Equipment Program, 888-424-6857.

1. Remove the right upper fender trim (see UPPER FENDER TRIM REPLACEMENT ).
2. Turn the ignition switch to ON (II), and make sure to turn the A/C switch OFF. Turn the ignition switch to LOCK (0).
3. Check the position of the auto-tensioner indicator (A). Start the engine, then check the position again with the engine idling. If the position of the indicator moves or fluctuates a lot, replace the auto-tensioner (see DRIVE BELT AUTO-TENSIONER REPLACEMENT ).
   Fig 1: Checking Position Of Auto-Tensioner Indicator

   Courtesy of AMERICAN HONDA MOTOR CO., INC.
4. Check for abnormal noise from the tensioner pulley. If you hear any abnormal noise, replace the auto-tensioner pulley (see DRIVE BELT AUTO-TENSIONER REPLACEMENT ).
5. Remove the drive belt (see DRIVE BELT REPLACEMENT ).
6. Move the auto-tensioner within its limit using the belt tension release tool (YA9317) in the direction of the arrow. Check that the auto-tensioner moves smoothly and without any abnormal noise. If the tensioner does not move smoothly, or you hear abnormal noises, replace the auto-tensioner (see DRIVE BELT AUTO-TENSIONER REPLACEMENT ).
   Fig 2: Identifying Belt Tension Release Tool

   Courtesy of AMERICAN HONDA MOTOR CO., INC.
7. Remove the auto-tensioner (see DRIVE BELT AUTO-TENSIONER REPLACEMENT ).
8. Clamp the auto-tensioner (A) by using a 10 mm bolt (B), an 8 mm bolt (C), and a vise (D) as shown. Do not clamp the auto-tensioner itself.
   Fig 3: Identifying Auto-Tensioner Parts

   Courtesy of AMERICAN HONDA MOTOR CO., INC.
9. Attach a torque wrench (A) to the pulley bolt. Measure the torque when the tensioner is turned counterclockwise. If the torque is less than the specified value, replace the auto-tensioner (see DRIVE BELT AUTO-TENSIONER REPLACEMENT ).

   Auto-tensioner Spring Torque 

   76.6 N.m (7.81 kgf.m, 56.5 lbf.ft) 

   Fig 4: Measuring Auto-Tensioner Spring Torque

   Courtesy of AMERICAN HONDA MOTOR CO., INC.
10. Install the auto-tensioner in the revers order of removal.