Brickers:

model: 1985 745t

Wondering about the recommended belt deflection method in my Haynes manual. The instructions state that the alternator and power steering belts should have a deflection of 5-10mm and the ac should have 1-2mm.

First off, is this correct? I tightened the alt. and ac to this spec, but they seem REALLY tight... I just don't want to kill my alternator or anything.

Second, is this spec for new belts? Does it anticipate the expansion/stretching of belts over time, or should you tighten the belts as they stretch to keep them within this spec?

The reason for these second questions is that I recently replaced the alt. and ac belts as I stated before, and tensioned them to spec. However, I did not replace the ps belt as I didn't see an easy way to get it off and didn't have time to deal with it. I have now noticed that the ps belt has at least double the deflection recommended (at least 10-15mm if not more), and want to know if I should try and tighten it up a little. The belt looks solid (no cracking or signs of wear), and I'd like to try and keep it on until the spring if possible.

On a sidenote, how does one retension the ps belt or get it off? I didn't look to closely or pull the underpanel when I did the other belts, and I can;t see any positive tensioning device or other simple means of loosening the ps pump to get the belt out. I imagine you have to go in from underneath (since its basically under the engine), but would welcome any advice.

Thanks,
Rick