The supercharged 3800 engine utilizes two drive belts. The outer drive belt drives the supercharger. The inner drive belt drives the following components:
• | Generator |
• | Power steering pump |
• | Water pump |
• | Air conditioning compressor |
All driven accessories rigidly mount to the engine. Spring-loaded belt tensioners maintain the drive belt tension. Each drive belt has its own tensioner. A drive belt squeak, occurring when the engine starts or stops, is normal and has no effect on the durability of the drive belt. The drive belt tensioner can control the drive belt tension over a broad range of drive belt lengths, due to stretching. However, there are limits to the tensioner's compensation ability. Poor tension control and/or damage to the tensioner may occur after using the tensioner outside of its operating range. Replace the drive belt when this occurs.
Important: After the new drive belt is installed, make sure that the mark on the drive belt tensioner is within range, as indicated on the tensioner housing.