Drive Belt Auto-Tensioner Inspection

Special Tools Required 

Belt Tension Release Tool Snap-on TK9317, commercially available

^* : Available through the Acura Tool and Equipment Program, 888-424-6857.

1. Remove the engine compartment covers (see ENGINE COMPARTMENT COVER REPLACEMENT ).
2. Turn the ignition switch to ON (II), or press the engine start/stop button to select the ON mode, and make sure to turn the A/C switch OFF, then turn the ignition switch to LOCK (0), or press the engine start/stop button to select the OFF mode.
3. Check the position of the auto-tensioner indicator (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 .
   Fig 1: Identifying Auto-Tensioner Indicator

   Courtesy of AMERICAN HONDA MOTOR CO., INC.
4. Check for abnormal noise from the tensioner pulley. If you hear any abnormal noise, replace the tensioner pulley .
5. Remove the drive belt .
6. Move the auto-tensioner within its limit using the belt tension release tool (TK9317) in the direction shown. Check that the auto-tensioner moves smoothly and without any abnormal noise. If the auto-tensioner does not move smoothly, or you hear abnormal noises, replace the auto-tensioner .
   Fig 2: Moving Auto-Tensioner With In Limits

   Courtesy of AMERICAN HONDA MOTOR CO., INC.
7. Remove the auto-tensioner .
8. Clamp the auto-tensioner (A) by using a 10 mm bolt (B), an 8 mm bolt (C), and a vise (D) as shown. Do not clamp the auto-tensioner itself.
   Fig 3: Identifying Auto-Tensioner, Bolts And Vise

   Courtesy of AMERICAN HONDA MOTOR CO., INC.
9. Attach a torque wrench (A) to the pulley bolt. Measure the torque when the tensioner is turned counterclockwise. If the torque is less than the specified value, replace the auto-tensioner .

   Auto-Tensioner Spring Torque 32.8 N.m (3.34 kgf.m, 24.2 lbf.ft) 

   Fig 4: Identifying Torque Wrench On Pulley Bolt

   Courtesy of AMERICAN HONDA MOTOR CO., INC.
10. Install the auto-tensioner in the reverse order of removal.
11. Install the engine compartment covers (see ENGINE COMPARTMENT COVER REPLACEMENT ).