Reoccurring issue

[e30m3ochoa]

So, I've had my 318I for less than a year and in that time span I have replaced my drive belts twice and I might need to pretty soon again. I don't know if when I buy the belts they give me the wrong ones or something else is at play here. The belts I have replaced the alternator and water pump belts. Any ideas of how this could keep occurring in such a short time?

[cunninglinguist]

You sure you have them seated on the correct grooves on the crank pulley?

[e30m3ochoa]

You sure you have them seated on the correct grooves on the crank pulley?

I believe I do. The alternator belt is in the back one closest to the engine, the A/C is in the middle pulley, and the power steering is in the first one closest to the radiator.

[roguetoaster]

Where are you getting the belts from, and what brands have you used?

As to failures I would inspect your pulleys for nicks or gouges that could damage the belts.

Why are you replacing the belts anyway, stretch, degradation of the material, cuts?

[e30m3ochoa]

Where are you getting the belts from, and what brands have you used?

As to failures I would inspect your pulleys for nicks or gouges that could damage the belts.

Why are you replacing the belts anyway, stretch, degradation of the material, cuts?

The belts I got them from AutoZone cause it was the closest store for me and the brand I would say duralast. Not to sure on that.

I will inspect the pulleys themselves but there is no damage to the belts just stretched and are loose.

[roguetoaster]

As in stretched to where you cannot adjust the system enough to get proper tension, correct?

I have had good luck with Contitech and Goodyear. Just be aware that some stores will sell belts that are close enough to stock specs but would generally be considered too larger for long term use. Consider ordering parts online instead of patronizing your local auto parts stores (unless one is really competent and actually deserves your business).

Stock belts are ~(mm):

Alternator 10x1025
A/C 13x890
PS 10x800

[e30m3ochoa]

As in stretched to where you cannot adjust the system enough to get proper tension, correct?

I have had good luck with Contitech and Goodyear. Just be aware that some stores will sell belts that are close enough to stock specs but would generally be considered too larger for long term use. Consider ordering parts online instead of patronizing your local auto parts stores (unless one is really competent and actually deserves your business).

Stock belts are ~(mm):

Alternator 10x1025
A/C 13x890
PS 10x800

Yeah, it reaches the point to where I can't adjust them anymore and they are loose.

Well I guess I am going to have to look for them online cause it might be that they do make them a bit longer than what is required.