cgray231981

I just had a new alternator put in to my 1990 Audi 100 about a month ago, but couldn't drive it b/c the radiator was leaking. I had the radiator replaced, but now the alternator belt keeps breaking (2 in 3 days). Someone told me that my A/C clutch was probably locking up and causing my belt to snap. Does this sound right? I didn't think that the alternator belt went around the A/C Clutch?

tonyj

get belt from dealer and careful on tension when replacing. Twist 90 degrees with fingers at mid point.

RussB

Alternatively to dealer, all Worldpac resellers (SJMautotechnik and many others) sell correctly sized Conti belts. I've had good success with them.

The alternator and the AC compressor each has its own separate belt.

rooster 2

stay away from the cheapies, like Kelly-Springfield. The Kellys are nothing but trouble.

Suffolk

Mine CHUCKS the Contis. Getting exspensive. I suspect your alt bearing for the shaft is bad, turn by hand to check. Smooth?

-Scott by BOSTON

rwarrich

I have a 89 Audi 100 that was doing the same thing, alternator belt would tear to shreds in less than 100 miles. Do you notice if the driveshaft pulley wobbles at idle or acceleration? I had a bad muffler and once I replaced that, the engine ran smoother and haven't broken a belt since. My thinking is that since the engine was running rough, it caused the driveshaft pulley, also called a harmonic balancer I believe, to wobble and since the alternator belt is the end belt, it took a lot of abuse and wear. Also check your pulleys for any rust or corrosion which also could wear the belt.