1. Introduction
This manual provides essential information for the proper installation, function, and maintenance of your Continental 49552 Accu-Drive Heavy Duty Tensioner Assembly. Please read these instructions carefully before proceeding with installation or any related procedures to ensure safe and effective operation.
The Continental 49552 Accu-Drive Heavy Duty Tensioner Assembly is engineered to maintain optimal belt tension in your vehicle's accessory drive system, contributing to the longevity and performance of the belt and associated components.
2. Product Features
- Designed to meet or exceed Original Equipment Manufacturer (OEM) fit and performance standards.
- Features OE-style locating pins integrated into the base casting for accurate mounting and alignment.
- Increases belt service life by consistently maintaining ideal tension as the belt wears.
- Utilizes round torsion spring technology, offering enhanced corrosion protection compared to flat-spring designs.
3. What's in the Box
- One (1) Continental - Goodyear - H/D Tensioner (49552)
4. Safety Information
Always prioritize safety when working on vehicle systems. Failure to follow safety precautions can result in injury or damage to the vehicle.
- Ensure the vehicle is turned off, the engine is cool, and the battery is disconnected before beginning any work.
- Wear appropriate personal protective equipment, including safety glasses and gloves.
- Refer to your vehicle's service manual for specific instructions and torque specifications related to belt and tensioner replacement.
- Keep hands and clothing clear of moving parts when the engine is running.
5. Setup and Installation
The following steps provide a general guide for installing the Continental 49552 Accu-Drive Heavy Duty Tensioner Assembly. Specific procedures may vary by vehicle model. Always consult your vehicle's service manual for detailed instructions.
- Preparation: Park the vehicle on a level surface, engage the parking brake, and disconnect the negative battery terminal. Allow the engine to cool completely.
- Access: Depending on your vehicle, you may need to remove other components (e.g., air intake, fan shroud) to gain access to the serpentine belt and tensioner.
- Relieve Belt Tension: Locate the tensioner pulley. Using an appropriate wrench or tensioner tool, rotate the tensioner arm to relieve tension on the serpentine belt. Carefully remove the belt from the pulleys.
- Remove Old Tensioner: Unbolt the old tensioner assembly from its mounting point on the engine. Note its orientation for correct installation of the new unit.
- Install New Tensioner: Position the new Continental 49552 tensioner assembly in place, ensuring the OE-style locating pins align correctly. Secure it with the appropriate bolts. Refer to your vehicle's service manual for specific torque specifications.
- Install Serpentine Belt: Route the serpentine belt according to the vehicle's belt routing diagram. Use the tensioner tool to rotate the tensioner arm, allowing enough slack to place the belt over the final pulley. Slowly release the tensioner arm to apply tension to the belt. Double-check that the belt is properly seated in all pulley grooves.
- Reassembly and Test: Reinstall any components removed for access. Reconnect the negative battery terminal. Start the engine and observe the belt and tensioner for proper operation, ensuring there are no unusual noises or wobbling.
Figure 1: Top view of the Continental 49552 Accu-Drive Heavy Duty Tensioner Assembly. This image shows the main body of the tensioner with its central mounting point and the smooth pulley wheel on the right, designed to maintain belt tension.
Figure 2: Angled view of the Continental 49552 Accu-Drive Heavy Duty Tensioner Assembly. This perspective highlights the robust construction, the spring mechanism housing, and the ribbed pulley designed for serpentine belts, along with a part number label.
6. Operating Principle
The Continental 49552 Accu-Drive Heavy Duty Tensioner Assembly is a critical component in the vehicle's accessory drive system. Its primary function is to apply constant, optimal tension to the serpentine belt, which drives various accessories such as the alternator, power steering pump, air conditioning compressor, and water pump.
The internal round torsion spring mechanism allows the tensioner arm to pivot, automatically adjusting to changes in belt length due to wear, temperature fluctuations, or engine vibrations. This continuous adjustment ensures proper belt grip, preventing slippage, reducing noise, and extending the lifespan of both the belt and the driven accessories.
7. Maintenance
Proper maintenance of your vehicle's accessory drive system, including the tensioner, is crucial for reliable operation.
- Regular Inspection: Periodically inspect the tensioner for signs of wear, such as excessive play in the pulley, corrosion, or a weakened spring. Check the belt for cracks, fraying, or glazing.
- Noise Check: Listen for unusual noises from the tensioner or belt area, such as squealing, chirping, or grinding, which may indicate a failing tensioner or belt.
- Pulley Condition: Ensure the tensioner pulley rotates smoothly without binding or excessive wobble. The pulley surface should be clean and free of debris.
- Replacement: Tensioners are wear items. If the tensioner shows signs of failure or is unable to maintain proper belt tension, it should be replaced promptly to prevent belt slippage or breakage, which can lead to vehicle breakdown.
8. Troubleshooting
If you experience issues with your vehicle's accessory drive system, consider the following common troubleshooting steps related to the tensioner:
- Squealing or Chirping Belt: This often indicates insufficient belt tension or a worn belt. Inspect the tensioner for proper operation and the belt for wear. A failing tensioner may not apply enough force.
- Belt Slippage: If the belt is slipping, it could be due to a weak tensioner spring, a seized pulley, or an incorrect belt length.
- Excessive Vibration or Noise from Tensioner: This may suggest a worn bearing in the tensioner pulley or a failing internal spring mechanism.
- Belt Coming Off Pulleys: This is a serious issue that can be caused by a severely worn tensioner, misaligned pulleys, or an incorrect belt. Immediately address this to prevent damage.
If troubleshooting does not resolve the issue, it is recommended to consult a qualified automotive technician.
9. Specifications
| Attribute | Detail |
|---|---|
| Brand | Continental |
| Model Number | 49552 |
| Item Weight | 3.2 pounds |
| Product Dimensions | 9 x 5 x 4 inches |
| Manufacturer | Continental ContiTech |
| ASIN | B002V9HO48 |
| Date First Available | October 26, 2010 |
10. Warranty Information
Specific warranty details for the Continental 49552 Accu-Drive Heavy Duty Tensioner Assembly are typically provided at the point of purchase or can be found on the official Continental website. Please retain your proof of purchase for any warranty claims.
Warranty coverage generally applies to defects in materials and workmanship under normal use and service. It does not typically cover damage resulting from improper installation, misuse, neglect, accident, or unauthorized modification.
11. Support and Contact
For technical assistance, product inquiries, or warranty support, please contact Continental customer service. Refer to the official Continental website or product packaging for the most current contact information.
When contacting support, please have your product model number (49552) and proof of purchase readily available.
