what can you tell me about vee belt tensioners

[Gambler]

My mate has a vec c and has been told he needs to replace the poly vee belt tensioner. He does not know what it is nor what it does and why it should go wrong.

Any ideas?

[Nidge]

I've just been told the same today, I had this device changed about 2 years ago as the car was squealing when cold. Not the most reliable part as it needs to be replaced again. I've been quoted 170quid plus labour

Regards

Nidge

[Dwabo]

common prob on the 2.0tisnt it?.. mine squeeks and squeels from cold for around 10 mins before it goes away... mine needs doin also at some point!

[plasma]

v belt tensioner i believe is part of the timing belt assembly, its the tensioner that keeps the tension on the belt to stop it jumping teeth. Whilst they are doing it they must also replace the timing belt too i believe

other alternative is that its the tensioner for the aircon, alternator and crankshaft belt...

someone else will be along with the correct answer for sure

[Duncan]

Nah, it's the belt that runs between the alternator, air-con compressor and water pump - nothing to do with the timing.

EDIT: Just spotted your sneaky edit before it showed up as an edit on the post!

[Gambler]

Thanks guys.