A true replacement belt
Posted: Tue Sep 07, 2010 10:16 am
This previous thread might be worth reading.
On a closely related note, while regurgitating my Mini Goldie from scavenged parts, I spaced the motor 1/4" above the motor pan with the intention of being able to use a non-xx1/2" belt. Unfortunately I was confused in regard to the 'original size(hence the corrections to post #2 this thread).
I am happy to report that once I got that confusion out of the picture, I procured a belt 1/2" shorter than OEM.
Thus with the spacers, the motor pulley is 1/4" closer to the idler shaft,and a 1/2 x 26" belt works the same as a 26 1/2" belt with 'normal' spacing.
The belt was 'procured' from Auto Zone and is their house brand that I am told is manufactured by Dayco. It is very nearly 1/2" at the wide od, is segmented(increases flexibility with smaller pulley diameter) and is somewhat thinner(5/16???) than a std SS belt. Their pn 17260(sound familar?)
When installed about 3/32 in from the outside of the motor pulley and the high speed adjustment performed(top of screw ended even with top of jam nut) and the outer speed indicator set to barely above 'fast', the ring indicated barely below 'slow' when cranked all the way down.
Therefore I consider the spacers to be an excellent method of altering the motor mounting so as to be able to use a more standard belt(1/2 x 26").
This does decrease the clearance between the way tubes and the motor etc.
In order to install the 1/4" spacers, the screws must be lengthened AND the holes elongated outward(the screws are angled inward so the extra length places the screws further apart).
Better description with pix later.