Audi timing belt question

[vaboom123]

Hey everyone,

I was just wondering what the correct tension would be on a timing belt. The car is a 1996 Audi A4 with the 2.8 v6/12v. It has the old style tensioner where you have to set the tension manually. The manual says you should be able to bend the belt 90 degrees between the pass. side timing gear and water pump. I have that right now and it only makes a slight whine at idle. The question I have is this still too tight? I know if a t-belt is over tightened it will whine, but also with this little bit of whine could it be bedding in? Just thought I’d run this past you guys.

 

[Chris142]

that's a tough one since we can't touch the belt ourselves.

 

[vaboom123]

I've done a handful of the newer audi t-belts with the hydro tensioner (pull the pin and she's set) style, but not an older one. Most of the t-belts I've done have a spring or window to see where the tension should be. I just don't want to end of with a big paper weight haha

 

[mechtech2]

If you can bend it 90 deg without a lot of hand strength/force, you are pretty close. And yes, it will seat in a bit and loosen up. Not a lot, but in that direction.
They do make noise.
BTW, check it in 500 miles and see if she is waling off the edge.

 

[vaboom123]

Sounds like a plan mechtech2! Thanks for your advice on the matter.