Trouble changing fan belt
 

I can not change my fan belt without removing the front engine mount screws from the engine and raising the engine about 1/16" to let the belt pass through the gap between the crank pulley rim and the flange of the forged motor mount. I have been using a BX cross-section belt that is 13/32" thick and 5/8" wide. This is too thick
I can use an AX cross-section which is 5/16" thick and 1/2" wide. This passes through nicely. I think I have a repo forged front mount that is too short allowing the flange to close the gap to the crank pulley. Most people I tell this to tell me to just lift the motor but they forget the relationship of pulley to mount flange is fixed by the engine bolts.

Is there a ford drawing that shows the proper dimension from the 2 bolt holes to the under side of the mount flange? I can't believe Henry built 4.5 million cars with this defect. This could be a problem on the side of the road.
Thanks, Bill G

Re: Trouble changing fan belt
 

I am wondering if your crank handle can be inserted in the ratchet bolt. This will show you if your engine is sitting to low or not.

Re: Trouble changing fan belt
 

Again, it doesn't matter. The space is fixed between the crank pulley rim and engine mount flange as long as the mount is attached to the engine. And the starting crank does enter the bushing -- works fine.

Re: Trouble changing fan belt
 

Bill,

I have had trouble getting belt installed with SOME of the REPRO Front engine mounts.

They are the wrong shape and prevent installing the belt.
Mine is July 29 coupe.

Re: Trouble changing fan belt
 

I've turned the belt sideways over the engine pulls ,and turn the motor over with the hand crank. It does leave marks in the belt using a new belt doesn't seam to hurt the belt.

Re: Trouble changing fan belt
 

Try using a linkbelt type belt and you won’t have a problem installing it.