V-belt keeps breaking

[Bilko1270]

I have a 1997 Maxum 1900SR with a 3.0LX engine. The engine runs well when it’s soaked in but I’m having issues with the V-belt. I have put in 3 belts in 10 outings in the boat. Belt starts grand with no slipping. Then after 60 mins of running it heats up, expands, I tighten, it’s grand for a while and then same thing happens. Once I get to max adjustment on alternator the belt then starts slipping, smoking and eventually fails. Any ideas what’s going on and what I need to do to fix it? Surely I shouldn’t be going through V-belts at this rate. Thanks in advance for your help.

I’m using the original v-belt for the engine and also tried other belts - they last slightly longer but eventually same thing happens.

[mmwjr]

Check the condition and alignment of all the pulleys. Burrs or rust will ruin the belt. Also if any pulley is not in line with the other wear will occur.

[Bilko1270]

Thanks mmwjr. The top pulley (water pump) has a bit of rust on it. Buff up and paint or just replace the pulley ?

[mmwjr]

Originally Posted by Bilko1270

Thanks mmwjr. The top pulley (water pump) has a bit of rust on it. Buff up and paint or just replace the pulley ?

Just buff it up, paint won’t stick with the belt rubbing on it.

[Bilko1270]

Thanks Mike, will buff it up this week and hopefully the bi-weekly belt replacement will be a thing of the past.