Posted by Hogryder on January 02, 2001 at 15:07:49:
In Reply to: belt tention posted by toadady on January 01, 2001 at 17:44:56:
My hog didn't come with a "spring loaded brass thing" and the previous owner lost the one from the Savage tool bag so I use a different (and better) method.
Prop the back wheel up in the air by whatever means you prefer. Loosen the belt until it is very loose. Spin the back wheel by hand and tighten the belt until it starts to restrict the "free wheeling" then back it off a little. That's the right tension.
It's a lot better if the belt is a little too loose than a little too tight. Too tight causes lots of problems - uneven bearing wear, belt wear, poor performance, etc. Loose only becomes a problem if it's way too loose and skips a "tooth". If your belt binds a little when you back up, it's too tight. It's probably also a little out of alignment.
Enjoy.