MORE THAN COMFORT
GATES explains how accessory belt drive systems support more than
the comfort features of a vehicle.
Also known as the engine accessory drive, accessory belt drive systems
(ABDS) have to support the increasingly sophisticated and diverse
auxiliary features found in vehicles today. These amenities range from
safety critical systems such as the power steering, through to comfort
functions like the infotainment system, air conditioning and electric
seating systems. As a result, it is imperative that the ABDS is correctly
maintained for the wellbeing of all the features that are reliant on its
prime operational condition.
COMPONENTS WORKING IN UNISON
The ABDS is comprised of a variety of individual components that work
together in unison. The primary component is the system belt also
known as, the multi-v belt (Gates’ Micro-V ® belt) or traditionally, fan
belt. This transfers power from the crank shaft pulley to all belt-driven
accessories.
performance when the engine decelerates. The overrunning alternator
pulley allows the alternator to “free-wheel” or “overrun” every time the
engine decelerates and, at the same time, dampens vibrations at the
alternator. This pulley serves to extend the lifespan of the alternator,
Micro-V ® belt and all belt-driven components.
1 Multi-V Belt
2 Tensioner
3 Idler
4 Tortional Vibration
Damper
5 Overrrunning Alternator
Pulley
7
2
However, the other components in the ABDS play an equally important
role in ensuring trouble-free system operation. These components are:
Tensioner
Maintains the correct tension on the belt at all times throughout
its duty cycle. Inadequate belt tension causes noise, extremely high
temperatures and premature belt-wear. If the tension is too tight, it can
also cause excessive wear to the belt-driven accessories. Both scenarios
can lead to poor functioning of belt-driven accessories.
Idler
Free-spinning wheel around which the belt travels to optimise belt
routing and suppress belt flutter.
Torsional vibration damper
As VMs make engines smaller, lighter, and more powerful, the
components are exposed to more strain, causing increased vibrations.
This has led to the replacement of the crankshaft pulleys with torsional
vibration dampers that have a rubber damping element to absorb
increased vibrations from the crankshaft. This works to extend the
service lifespan of the crankshaft, Micro-V ® belt and all belt-driven
components.
Overrunning alternator pulley
Comfort and other accessory functions require extra electrical power
that is derived from heavier alternators that compromise the belt
10 ACCESSORY BELT DRIVE SYSTEMS
5
4
6 Alternator
7 Power Steering Pump
8 Air Conditioning
Compressor
6
3
1
8
THE KEY TO OPTIMAL FUNCTIONALITY
The Micro-V ® belt typically drives the alternator, power steering pump, air conditioning
compressor and water pump via the crankshaft. If any of these components fail, the car
will not function optimally.
WORK TOGETHER, CHANGE TOGETHER
As all components were installed at the same time at OE, they would
have done the same amount of work, and experienced the same level
of wear. If one part is beginning to struggle, there is a knock-on effect
throughout the system. As a result, installers are advised to replace all
ABDS components at once when carrying out any maintenance or repair
work on any one component/aspect of the ABDS.
IT’S ALL IN THE KIT
To address the need for complete ABDS replacement, Gates has a
complete range of Micro-V ® kits which include all the necessary
components to facilitate total system replacement. For more
information, please speak with your local Gates or FPS representative
today.
VITAL NEWS ISSUE 49