In my experience, lost teeth on a belt are almost ALWAYS the result of over
tightening. Be aware that over-tightening is not only a malady for belts,
but for the bearings of the accessory to which the belt is affixed. Most
manuals (Bentley, Haynes) offer belt tightening guidelines or those without
a belt tensioning gauge.

For those without a manual, a 'close enough' tension is where the belt can
be taken in hand and turned easily such that the teeth are 90 degrees
perpendicular to their usual orientation.

Cheers,

G. Matthew Bulley
Bulley-Hewlett
Corporate Communications Counselors
www.bulley-hewlett.com
Mount Olive, NC USA
877.658.1278 tollfree

"I, the undersigned, shall forfeit all rights, privileges, and licenses
herein and herein contained, et cetera, et cetera . . . fax mentis
incendium gloria culpum, et cetera, et cetera . . . memo bis punitor
delicatum!" It's all there, black and white, clear as crystal!      -Wonka

-----Original Message-----
From:   Paul Bucco [SMTP:Ibuyvws@AOL.COM]
Sent:   Thursday, May 04, 2000 7:15 PM
To:     vanagon@GERRY.VANAGON.COM
Subject:        belt problem

Hi List,
                 Well, my 87 wolfsburg is up and running.  500 miles+ under
it's belt already.  Oil was changed at 350 miles.  I have had no problems
other then needing to tighten up the 3 belts at times.  The belt going from
the water pump to the alternator has lost it's teeth.  Did i make it too
tight?  They are Gates belts so i know they are not garbage.   Anybody have
any idea?  Thanks to those who have answered my past probs and to the Bus
Depot, Ken @ VanAgain, and Mike @ AW auto parts.

Thanks in advance,
         Paul Bucco            ibuyvws@aol.com
87 wolfsburg edition vanagon
65 21 window deluxe bus
71 squareback automatic