[Mk2] [NA] Alternator belt tension mystery?

[dubsport01]

Hi all,

Recently bought a 1997 N/a uk tbar. Was giving a good service today and I am planning to do a timing belt but was having a mosey round the belt area and noticed the tensioning bolt for the alternator was hanging loose and the locking bolt for it seems to be missing. I have been driving the car for about a month with no charging trouble, the gauge on the dash goes into the optimum charging range and the belt feels pretty well tensioned.

My question is, what is keeping this belt in good tension? Also if anybody could identify which parts are missing. I don't want to remove the belt and not be able to get it tensioned again.

See pics below, best I could get. Any suggestions would be appreciated.

Thanks in advance

imgur.com/iZ4Wyt1
imgur.com/CbMR2in

[going4the1]

The tensioner parts you need will be these:

http://www.ebay.co.uk/itm/MR2-SW20-MK2- ... 3f2758e8fb


Compare to the images here to be sure they are all there:

http://www.mr2.com/ARTICLE/TimingBeltSW20.html

They look all there to me??

The alternator bottom lock bolt and grime around that will be enough to hold it in place. But you are right not to tamper with it until you get the right parts. That bolt may have been over-tightened by the previous keeper so be careful. The head can easily round. Do not attempt undoing it unless you have a six sided socket (the multi 12 point ones willl definately ruin the bolt head). 14mm I think - remove the rear offside wheel for access - a long breaker bar is also recommended.

[dubsport01]

Looks good!

Thanks for your help, much appreciated.