1977 omc stringer 302 ford loose belt

[markboutros]

I have a minor screaming noise coming out of my engine, I think its my belt. Whats the best way to investigate. Also how do I know if the belt is tight or loose.

Thanks

 

[cr2k]

Re: 1977 omc stringer 302 ford loose belt

Tighten the belt. You should be able to deflect a tight belt no more than 1/2 inch between the furthest pulleys.

A loose belt is almost always the cause of such noise. Especially at start up when the battery is lowest. If it not the belt your other options are bad alternator or circulation pump.

 

[markboutros]

Re: 1977 omc stringer 302 ford loose belt

what is a circulation pump.....??

The alternator charges the battery fine, can i shoot some lubricant on the pully of the alternator??

 

[markboutros]

Re: 1977 omc stringer 302 ford loose belt

I have a 77 omc stringer drive, there is no water pump its an impeller in my upper unit.....right??

 

[Levinz11]

Re: 1977 omc stringer 302 ford loose belt

I have a 77 omc stringer drive, there is no water pump its an impeller in my upper unit.....right??

Oh boy.

 

[NW Redneck]

Re: 1977 omc stringer 302 ford loose belt

Besides the impeller in the drive, there is a water pump on the front of the engine. You really need to get a manual if you are going to do your own maintenance and repairs.

 

[markboutros]

Re: 1977 omc stringer 302 ford loose belt

Can i remove the belt and run for a sec or two to see if the noise goes away??

 

[Bondo]

Re: 1977 omc stringer 302 ford loose belt

Can i remove the belt and run for a sec or two to see if the noise goes away??

Ayuh,.... Why not tighten it, or replace it, 'n see if it goes away,..??

 

[Silvertip]

Re: 1977 omc stringer 302 ford loose belt

Hold a bar of soap on the sides of the belt with the engine running. CAREFULLY FOR PETE'S SAKE!!!!!!!! If the noise goes away the belt is loose. Tighten it. If the adjustment range is at the end of the slot you need a new belt. Squirt lubricant on the pulley will guarantee the belt will slip and the battery WON'T charge and water pump WON'T pump properly. FIX things that aren't working properly. Masking an issue will only leave you looking for a paddle.

 

[markboutros]

Re: 1977 omc stringer 302 ford loose belt

Thanks guys,

I will replace the belt tomorrow.

 

[Bondo]

Re: 1977 omc stringer 302 ford loose belt

Hold a bar of soap on the sides of the belt with the engine running. CAREFULLY FOR PETE'S SAKE!!!!!!!! If the noise goes away the belt is loose. Tighten it. If the adjustment range is at the end of the slot you need a new belt. Squirt lubricant on the pulley will guarantee the belt will slip and the battery WON'T charge and water pump WON'T pump properly. FIX things that aren't working properly. Masking an issue will only leave you looking for a paddle.

Ayuh,.... I've been carrin' a bar of Lava hand soap in my various toolboxes for 40 years,....

For That particular reason,....

The side benefit is ya Can wash yer hands with it...