Belt question

[gray horse]

Got the cart running, still need to do a little tuning but pleased with it. The question I have is I have 2 belts that I can use. One is a Dayco MAX that when installed seems to be a bit too long but it sits high in the secondary clutch, maybe 1/8" above the edge. The other belt is an extreme duty belt, double sided, that is a bit shorter than the Dayco but sits down in the secondary about the same amount as the other is above. Both belts will work, just not sure which one to use. Any thoughts on this?

[abieex]

I like the sound of the second one best. I dont think I want anything above the sheave even an 1/8". I don't think there is an upside there. Pls correct if I'm wrong Gray.

[abieex]

Also, What happens as the longer belt wears and stretches?

[Flintrock]

Those are some thick belts, so riding a little above the shieve may not be a bad thing. Should allow a better idle, as well as better top end speed as long as there is no slipping. Is this an aftermarket motor? How much deflection in each belt?

[DOOmsman]

I would gps and time an acceleration run on both.
Pick the one that puts the biggest smile on your face.

[CharlieN]

A belt that is tighter around the front will engage at a smaller diameter up front giving a lower initial ratio and can make up for a belt that starts up high in the rear.

Now if the belt starts up high in the rear and is still down low in the front (not loose) will both give a lower initial ratio but will also pull down lower at the rear as it climbs up in the front providing a taller ratio as well.
Hope I worded that clearly.

[Slamminsam]

I'd go with what Dooms said.

[gray horse]

The motor is a clone motor with some work done to it. The Dayco belt when on seems to have a good deal of deflection. The x-duty belt has much less deflection. Not too tight on the clutches but noticably less deflection. I haven't noticed any slippage with the Dayco belt.

Doom, I think you're right. I'll do a couple of road tests using each belt and see which one works the best.

Thanks guys.

[CharlieN]

Can you move the engine forward to get the tension on the belt as needed?

[sho305]

Also the width of the belt will make it sit higher on the secondary if wider, providing it is not too tight to do so. That gives you a lower initial gear to take off with, that is what a cut secondary sheave does. If you do that and have it somewhat tight so it engages low in the primary to move the cart, it will be nice on slow hills and takeoffs or towing.