What steps should be taken to inspect and replace drive belts on Mazda MX-5 Miata?

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Accepted Answer

The drivebelts are situated at the front of the engine and since they are made of the same composition and undergo high stresses, they stretch and wear out with time so that they require inspection after some time. In the case of models made in 2005 and earlier, where the engine is off, unlock the hood and locate the drivebelts and visually examine them by looking to see if they are cracking, fraying, separating, tearing, and glazing, inspecting both sides by twisting the belt. To measure tension, moderate pressure should be applied between given pulleys, deflection checked and compared with factory requirements. In case of adjustments, it is necessary to loosen the alternator mounting bolts to adjust the alternator/water pump belt, or to loosen the power steering pump pump belt locknuts and the pump bolt. In vehicles that lack power steering although they have air conditioning, adjust the idler pulley. To change a belt, loosen it to slide it off the crankshaft pulley, and it is a good idea to change both the alternator/water pump belt and either the power steering or air conditioning belt at the same time. Once the replacement is done, make sure that the new belt fits correctly and is centered. In models of 2006 and beyond, examine the drivebelt, looking for cracks and separation but twisting it to look at both sides and look at fraying and glazing. Ribbed belts that have small cracks may not be that much of a cause to replace unless they are extensive. With the automatic tensioner, the serpentine drivebelt should not be adjusted, although, monitor the tensioner indicator mark to check whether it needs to be replaced or not. To install a new drivebelt, you have to remove the battery and tray and in the process air filter housing but you need to remember to mark how the previous drivebelt was routed. Turn the tensioner so that it removes the old belt and puts the new one in as shown in the sketch. Once installed ensure that there is proper tension. In the case of automatic tensioner, make sure that it rotates well; otherwise, change it and fit the tensioner assembly.

Genuine Mazda MX-5 Miata Drive Belt

5 Drive Belts found

Mazda MX-5 Miata Water Pump Belt Part Number: PEES-15-908

Mazda MX-5 Miata Serpentine Belt Part Number: LFG1-15-909B

Mazda MX-5 Miata Serpentine Belt Part Number: P301-15-909C

Mazda MX-5 Miata Serpentine Belt Part Number: LF9J-15-909A

Mazda MX-5 Miata Serpentine Belt Part Number: LF9M-15-909A

Mazda MX-5 Miata Drive Belt

Mazda MX-5 Miata Drive Belt Parts and Q&A

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