Therefore, you don't "adjust" the tension in the traditional sense. If the belt is slipping, the problem isn't likely a tension issue but rather one of these:
* Worn Belt: The belt itself might be worn, cracked, or glazed, reducing its grip. This is the most common cause. Solution: Replace the belt.
* Worn Pulley: One or more of the pulleys (alternator, crankshaft, power steering pump, etc.) might be worn, grooved, or misaligned, preventing proper belt contact. Solution: Inspect pulleys for damage. A severely worn pulley needs replacement.
* Seized Tensioner: While rare, the automatic tensioner itself could be seized or malfunctioning, failing to provide adequate tension. Solution: This requires professional diagnosis and likely replacement of the tensioner.
* Incorrect Belt Routing: Make sure the belt is routed correctly over all the pulleys. A wrongly routed belt won't engage properly. Solution: Consult your owner's manual for the correct routing diagram.
In short: Instead of trying to adjust the tension, diagnose the *cause* of the slipping belt. Replacing the belt is often the first and most effective step. If the problem persists after a new belt, further inspection of pulleys and the tensioner is necessary. This may require the expertise of a mechanic.
