Hi all,
We have been having several comebacks on vehicles recently after we have fitted new auxiliary drive belts, in nearly every case it has been after a Gates belt has been fitted. Now I know all the usual things that should also be considered when fitting a new belt, i.e. condition of pulleys, tensioners & alignment of belt ect.The problem we are experiencing, is excessive squeak & noise (especially we first starting up in morning) this is not & squeal that you would get from a loose or badly worn belt, but just a irritating squeak.
The worst experience we had was with a Xantia turbo diesel, about 3 weeks after we fitted a cam belt & auxiliary belt, vehicle came back in auxiliary belt very noisy , we checked it out and decided the noise was actually one of the tensioner pulley’s so we replaced all tensioner pulleys (expensive) and another new belt, it seemed perfect, until two days later, just the same.
We then fitted a Quinton Hazel belt, problem solved, we have since replaced many more belts and so far no more problems.
Please don’t think I am having a go at gates because I know that they are a good company have a good reputation, I have spoken to my gates rep & he said that he did not know of any problem of this type, but I will not fit any gates drive belt at the moment because I cannot take the risk (it costs me money) we either fit O/E belts or Q/H.
Sorry to go on so much, but I suggested to rep that I would post this and get your views on this matter, and if you had had any problems.
P.s I have noticed & pointed out to gates that some O/E belts & competitors belts are slightly ribbed (rough )on the back.
Regards
Lindsay.