I am just looking at my workshop manual at the cambelt tensioning instructions and it calls for a special tool 21-113. I can find a universal tool on ebay (laser style). Has anyone used the universal one? Are they any good?
I also note the manual calls for a tension of 9.5 to 10.5 on the gauge. Will this translate from the Ford Special Tool 21-113 to a universal tension tool? The manual neglects to mention a unit of measure, it just says "on the gauge"
Thanks for sharing your cambelt tensioning experiences.

 

IIRC correctly with out a gauge 90° twist is the right amount of tension.

 

What car / engine ?

Most cambelt tensioners these days have an indicator built into them that shows when correct tension is reached.

It is nothing more elaborate than an arm with a pointed end showing midway in a window on the tensioner or a notch on the outside.

If it is an old car then as Kosienutter has said the 90 degree twist on the longest belt run is normally good enough.

 

It is a 2wd YB cosworth. The 90° rule is one that I have applied when changing the cambelt on my old Hilux Surf with success before but as you understand a YB is a little more exclusive than an old diesel so I just wanted to be sure I am being careful and not overlooking anything.

 

As Ben said above matey.

 

Thanks guys.

 

Hi Kiwikermit, I would recommend getting your cambelt checked if its had any money spent on it for piece of mind.
If its standard the 90 degree rule would be fine though.
The first cosworth I brought had the cambelt one tooth off on one of the cams and took ages to diagnose what the problem was.
I am not sure if it was installed incorrectly or if it jumped a tooth.
Most engine rebuilders / decent mechanics would have a tool that checks it.
Where abouts are you in NZ? I use Manon Butler in Takapuna in Auckland they have been rebuilding cossies regularly for years.
I took a photo last time he did it. Burton motors in Sunnybrae are also well experienced also in Auckland.
Hope thats helps,
K

 

Cheers mate. I think I will have it checked for piece of mind.