Alternator belt tensioner

[peter.s]

Is the tensioner for the alternator belt adjustable? Or is it supposed to be self adjusting?

I've just the alternator belt replaced in my 1.9 TDi - but now the tensioner is rattling like crazy. Not sure if I can adjust it or if I need to replace it. Any advice welcome...

 

[towcester vag]

its self adjusting
did they fit the correct alternator pulley on the new alt?

 

[peter.s]

They didn't install a new alt, just a new belt.

I had my water pump and timing belt replaced, and while they were at it they put in a new alt belt. Now I'm left with this problem.

 

[sockpuppet]

When I had my tensioner fitted it would rattle for the first 10 seconds on startup and then it was quiet. If it is definitely the tensioner rattling you can get a replacement for about £30, I would recommend getting a genuine one.

There is a common fault where the alernator clutch pulley goes and this will cause a vibration on tick over and makes the tensioner bounce about.