Drive Belt Auto-tensioner Inspection

Special Tools Required 

Belt tension release tool Snap-on YA9317 or equivalent, commercially available

1. Turn the ignition switch ON (II), and make sure to turn the A/C switch OFF. Turn the ignition switch OFF.
2. Check the position of the auto-tensioner indicator's pointer (A). Start the engine then check the position again with the engine idling. If the position of the indicator moves or fluctuates a lot, replace the auto-tensioner (see DRIVE BELT AUTO-TENSIONER REMOVAL/INSTALLATION ).
   Fig 1: Identifying Auto-Tensioner Indicator's Pointer

   Courtesy of AMERICAN HONDA MOTOR CO., INC.
3. Check for abnormal noise from the tensioner pulley. If you hear abnormal noise, replace the tensioner pulley.
4. Remove the drive belt (see DRIVE BELT INSPECTION ).
5. Move the auto-tensioner within its limit using the belt tension release tool in the direction shown. Check that the tensioner moves smoothly and without any abnormal noise. If the tensioner does not move smoothly, or you hear abnormal noise, replace the auto-tensioner (see DRIVE BELT AUTO-TENSIONER REMOVAL/INSTALLATION ).
   Fig 2: Moving Auto-Tensioner Within Using Belt Tension Release Tool

   Courtesy of AMERICAN HONDA MOTOR CO., INC.
6. Remove the auto-tensioner (see DRIVE BELT AUTO-TENSIONER REMOVAL/INSTALLATION ).
7. Clamp the auto-tensioner (A) by using two 8 mm bolts (B) and a vise (C) as shown. Do not clamp the auto-tensioner itself.
   Fig 3: Identifying Clamp Auto-Tensioner And Bolts With Torque Wrench In Pulley Bolt Angle

   Courtesy of AMERICAN HONDA MOTOR CO., INC.
8. Set the torque wrench (D) in the pulley bolt in the direction shown.
9. Align the indicator (E) on the tensioner base with center mark (F) on the tensioner arm by using the torque wrench, and measure the torque. If the torque value is out of specification, replace the auto-tensioner.

Auto-tensioner Spring Torque: 

32.5-39.7 N.m (3.31-4.05 kgf.m, 23.9-29.3 lbf.ft)