Belts (title is too short)

I want to get a alternator belt for my motor. It is my understanding that the belt goes between the alternator and the crank pulley.

Did the mid 70s 460s have a smog pump above the alternator or something?

I got a belt for a 75 F100 without AC and it is too long, then asked for one out of a 77 F100 with a 460, still too long.

I would just use a string and run it around the pulleys. Then take it in to the local auto parts store to find the right belt. use thee string to measure the correct length.

Another option... cut an old belt to length needed, heat shrink the ends together and a "real parts store" will have a gauge to measure it with.

Tape measure is likely more accurate than a string.

You mark the string, and then you use the tape measure to measure it.

Phyne but...that gives you the inside length, not the outside where they are measured.

chuck stevens wrote:Phyne but...that gives you the inside length, not the outside where they are measured.

Get off my case Chuck! Just measure the inside of the new belt. Forget it, put an electric drive on it.

Just kidding. If it ends up not fitting, you can always take it back and get a size up or down.

Just wrap a pocket rule around it. It will get you close w/your adjuster.

chuck stevens wrote:Phyne but...that gives you the inside length, not the outside where they are measured.

Darn it Chuck... am I older than you to remember tools like these?
http://www.dayco.com.au/productimages/FactfinderGauge.jpg

I think it actually measures the inside diameter, and the outside width... but I could be wrong.

I always use a old long belt cut inhalf to measure with.

Ended up I needed a 36" belt.