T-Series & Prewar Forum

Sorry to dredge up this topic again. I’ve read all the posts regarding belts but have run into some conflicting information. I’m days away from starting my TD that has been in restoration for over 50 years and need to get this belt issue resolved.

As shown in the first photo, my tach cable will be positioned too close to the distributor. Note that my low voltage terminal is next to the block and out of harms way (more on that in a later post). I fitted the belt purchased from Moss Motors in the second photo. Others have said this belt is too short but I believe they are quoting the inside circumference not the outside which measures 39-1/4”. My generator (as shown somewhat in the third photo) is positioned all the way inward, which provides sufficient deflection but unfortunately results in not enough clearance for the tach cable. The belt most frequently favored on the forum is the Gates TR22392 with an outside circumference of 39-3/4”. I’m skeptical that the additional 1/2” length of the TR22392 will move my generator outward enough for the tach cable to avoid the distributor while letting my belt run very loose. O’Riley Auto Parts has a great belt selector that shows a Gates TR24400 at 40-5/8” (17 mm x 1032 mm). Should I try the favorite belt or move up to something longer?

Many thanks for your advice!

Gregg

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Gregg
1950 TD #1844
A Lifetime Project

Gregg,
I use a 17x0940Li and you can see that the adjuster is exactly in the middle.
Regards
Declan

Gregg,
I fitted a Powerspark dizzy with vacuum advance, and a longer belt to clear the tach cable, as you can see it extends the adjustment strut to full, but its just enough to tension the belt nice and freely.

Can’t remembered the belt number, but can look if you want, let me know.

Mike

Reset the distributor so the flat side is facing forward. That way, the terminal will be out of the way of the tach reduction box and it will result in the shortest and most direct route for the spark plug wires. One of the photos in the workshop manual shows that orientation. Of course, you need to ensure the timing is not affected. A half inch deflection of the middle of the fan belt is the optimum.

https://www.dbraun99.com/Dave%20DuBois/Keep_Your_Belts_Loose.pdf

Excellent information! I knew the belt on my TD was incorrect as it is obviously too narrow, riding deep in the pulley. Another item on my TUDU list!
Thanks! Lee

The late Dave Dubois wrote some very fine tech articles. He was spot on re belt size and that the only belt size I use. If I remember right the application was a power steering accessory drive belt for a Detroit Diesel among others.

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Bill Chasser
TD-4834
TD-5779
TD/c-8151
TD/c-16920
TD-19408
TD-24060

TF-8200

Gates 22392 is perfect for my 53 TD.

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Jim
53TD/28423

I ordered a Gates TR22392 belt from O'Reilly (correct spelling) and fitted it to my TD. Perfect fit, flexible and it moves the generator outwards to provide tach cable clearance and allows the belt to run very loose. Generator is positioned about midway on the adjuster link.

Thanks to all!

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Gregg
1950 TD #1844
A Lifetime Project

sounds like some kinda' belt! maybe i'll get one and it'll fix my weak headlights.