Elastic V-ribbed belts are becoming more popular on new engines. Whilst these belts offer many advantages ContiTech is warning that they do have some special fitting considerations. It can also offer workshops a comprehensive range for expert aftermarket replacement products in this fast growing sector.

Elastic belts power the ancillary components and are suitable for drives in the lower and medium output ranges wherever there are fixed centre distances. These elastic belts cannot under any circumstances be replaced with a standard V-ribbed belt.  “The latter do not stretch and therefore do not apply the necessary initial tension to the belt pulleys, or cannot even be fitted in the first place,” explains Markus Pirsch, Head of the Automotive Aftermarket Marketing Service in the ContiTech Power Transmission Group.

Changing the belt requires a certain force since elastic belts have to be stretched when being fitted. Special tools are therefore always required to ensure correct fitting. ContiTech say it is essential not to resort to other fitting methods involving, for example, the use of a screwdriver or other tools which are not fit for purpose. Markus says, “Unsuitable tools should never be used, not just because the belt and pulley can be damaged in the process, but also because there is the risk of injury to the fitter.”

ContiTech supplies elastic V-ribbed belts to almost all well known car makers. To ensure safe, correct replacement, the company offers elastic belts together with a disposable tool in a complete kit for the automotive aftermarket for many vehicle types.

In the case of vehicle types for which no kit is available, ContiTech recommends its special tools such as the Uni Tool Elast. It also offers the Elast Tool for the Ford Focus, C-Max and Mondeo 1.4/1.6l petrol engines and Volvo S40, C30, V50 1.6l petrol engines.

All elastic belt-related products from ContiTech can be found in the main parts catalogue systems such as TecDoc. You can also view informative videos on-line at: www.youtube.com/user/contitechptgaam