I have seen this problem often on belt/pulley combinations that are tight
tolerance and dealing with metric vs inch belts.  There is a very slight
difference in the thickness of a metric belt and the angle on the metric
belt.  The metric belt will usually be right between the two common inch
sizes in thickness.  This would give you that deeper seating you are
mentioning and the better fit in that combination.  Several years back when
fitting belts on vanagons I noted that many of the pulleys did not take the
inch sized belts well and ordered the metric belts in.  they fitted perfect.
jimt

On 8/14/05 12:46 PM, "James Benthall" <Taobythesea@AOL.COM> wrote:

> Hi guys,
> Not ready to categorically state that I have solved my belt wearing problem
> (I still
> am waiting on my two-piece alt. pulley to arrive) but after buying a belt
> from the
> dealership (Conttitech brand) I can see a noticeable difference.  The
> Conttitech
> belt is not as thick so it rides closer to flush on the main driveshaft
> pulley, and as
> a result it does not appear to be rubbing ;-)  This may mean my problem is
> solved!
> Question:  Has anyone else had problems w/ aftermarket alt. belts?  If so,
> which
> kind?  I have been through Goodyear Gatorback, Gates, Continental, etc.
> Thanks for any input.
> james in houston
> 87 westy
>
>