Engine queries

[eddystone]

Not been out for a while but ran engine (VP2002) for 10 minutes today. Noticed quite a bit of black dust on the oil filter, which is inside the path of the alternator belt. Would this be a definite indicator the belt is too slack? Was adjusted by very experienced mechanic before launching and only done about 25 hours since then.

Also, at idle, bit of a drip from the impellor housing plate disappeared when revs increased and didn't restart dripping when returened to idle; I'm inclined to leave it be for the time being.

 

[TQA]

Yup belt needs to be tighter. Also the old belt may be burnt on the driving faces. Check to see if it is shiny or cracked.

It it were mine I would get a new belt and keep the other one as an emergency spare.

Remember if you do fit a new belt readjust it after an hours running.

 

[Martin_J]

If you've not been out for a while, it could be something as simple as specks of rust on the belt pulleys.

Any roughness on the pulley surfaces can cause the belt to wear or shed dust.

Belt tightness (or looseness) should be just a deflection measurement when the engine is not running.

Black dust could also be appearing if you have black foam sound proofing that is starting to turn to dust..