At 111K I took my 2000 Caravan to my mechanic to replace all belts, waterpump. At 140K it failed so I took it back they said it was the timing belt and tensioner. After showing the receipt from before (same mechanic), they said it was the tensioner that caused the problem, which isn't a factory recommendable replacement when changing the timing belt (like the pump is). On line I have seen that the tensioner IS a recommended replacement when doing the belt. Is there a consensus on this, or some official recommendation that I can access. Any thoughts?
Chet42
02-19-2006, 01:03 PM
The tensioner shouldn't have to be replaced, unless its required, i've done 3 timing belts on my 3.0L and with over 200,000 miles i haven't had to replace the tensioner yet.
I would tend to think that the belt failer was due to overtightening of the tensioner and placing to much stress on the belt, stretching it and then it either breaks or skips. It's very important to follow the exact torque settings or else it will led to premature belt failure or worse.
Chet.
acton mike
02-19-2006, 09:16 PM
The tensioner for the belt that drives the alternator and P/S pump has no provision for adjustment.
some of the 3.0 engine vehicles with A/C have a seperate belt to drive the a/c compressor and it does have an adjustable tensioner. Too much tension here can prematurely cause a/c compressor failure
caravan2000cinz
02-20-2006, 11:49 AM
Thanks for the reply. In tour opinion shoud it be replaced with the timing belt?
Chet42
02-20-2006, 02:50 PM
No it shouldn't have to be replaced under normal use. Just ensure they don't place accesive tension on the belt, follow the torque settings in the manual.
