Drive Belt Auto-tensioner Inspection

Special Tools Required 

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

1. Remove the right side engine compartment cover (see step 1 on DRIVE BELT INSPECTION  ).
2. Check the position of the auto-tensioner indicator's pointer (A), start the engine, then check the position of the pointer again. If the position changes, replace the auto-tensioner (see DRIVE BELT AUTO-TENSIONER REPLACEMENT  ).
   Fig 1: Identifying Right Side Engine Compartment Cover

   Courtesy of AMERICAN HONDA MOTOR CO., INC.
3. Check for abnormal noise from the tensioner pulley. If you hear abnormal noise, replace the auto-tensioner pulley (see DRIVE BELT AUTO-TENSIONER REPLACEMENT  ).
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 if you hear abnormal noise, replace the auto-tensioner (see DRIVE BELT AUTO-TENSIONER REPLACEMENT  ).
   Fig 2: Moving Auto-Tensioner

   Courtesy of AMERICAN HONDA MOTOR CO., INC.
6. Remove the auto-tensioner (see DRIVE BELT AUTO-TENSIONER REPLACEMENT  ).
7. Clamp the auto-tensioner (A) by using a 10 mm bolt (B), 8 mm bolt (C) and a vise (D) as shown. Do not clamp the auto-tensioner itself.
   Fig 3: Identifying Auto-Tensioner Bolt

   Courtesy of AMERICAN HONDA MOTOR CO., INC.
8. Attach a torque wrench (A) to the pulley bolt. Measure the torque when the tensioner is turned counterclockwise and begin to move. If the torque is less than the specified value, replace the auto-tensioner (see DRIVE BELT AUTO-TENSIONER REPLACEMENT  ).

   Auto-tensioner Spring Torque: 50.5 N.m (5.15 kgf.m, 37.2 lbf.ft) 

   Fig 4: Attaching Torque Wrench To Pulley Bolt

   Courtesy of AMERICAN HONDA MOTOR CO., INC.