Unlike laser tools with attachments, Dayco’s tool has an aluminum body with magnets that secure it into the grooves of the reference pulley (usually the crankshaft pulley), ensuring a stable stage for accurate laser projection. The target component is also magnetic so it easily attaches and aligns with the grooves. Once turned on, the laser will project a line – not just a dot – which is an advantage over other laser tool designs. This projected line makes it possible to identify both axial and angular misalignment. Axial misalignment means the pulley is not positioned on the shaft properly. Angular misalignment is caused by a severely worn bearing within the pulley. Before using this tool, always make sure to disconnect the vehicle’s battery. Also, remove the vehicle’s serpentine belt before inspecting the accessory drive system.
The force of the belt being installed can often push a pulley out of alignment. When the system is relaxed, it might not be apparent. Start by checking all bearings in the pulleys and tensioner for any side to side play. Rotate the tensioner stop to stop while observing the tensioner body for movement. There should be none. Then, inspect the grooves in the tensioner pulley and idler pulleys for contamination or wear. If you are still having issues, conduct a noise test. With the vehicle running, spray water on the belt. If you hear a chirping noise, there is misalignment somewhere in the system. If the belt is squealing, where the noise goes away and returns quickly, there is an issue with tension and the tensioner should be replaced.
