Review on 🔧 Gates 91132 Krikit V-Ribbed Belt Tension Gauge: Perfect Tool for Precise Belt Tension Measurement by Robert Lemons

Here's how this tool works: You move the lever of the tool to the down position and then place the tool in the middle of the belt between two pulleys. Then push down on the tool until you feel a click. As soon as you feel a click, stop pulling the strap with your finger and look at the measurement result. The top of the movable arm (pictured left in this product description) intersects with the number scale engraved on the instrument. Wherever this point of intersection is, the final value of the belt tension is determined. What I can tell is that the tool basically converts some belt deflection into a corresponding tension. When a certain tension is applied (i.e. until the tool clicks), the belt will deflect a certain amount and the movable arm will move up only the amount of belt deflection. So I would say that the key aspect of this tool is when the click occurs, ensuring the appropriate distraction has been applied, and reading the measurement afterwards. A very cool tool. The only way I can see an incorrect reading is if the user applies more force to the strap (after the click has already occurred) or if the click mechanism is not calibrated and is clicking too early or too late (i.e. underapplying). ). force on the belt) or too much effort to create an incorrect measurement). I can't imagine the click being uncalibrated as it looks like a very simple mechanism. So I would say that this tool is almost always very accurate. I took several measurements on my belt and always got fairly consistent readings, maybe plus or minus 10 pounds. I've read on some forums that people have said they don't have room to put this tool in, but the tool is only 5 inches long. (shorter than most pens) and for the most part, if you have room to put your finger on the band and press it, you can probably use this tool there as well. The tool has a rubber finger loop so you don't drop it when trying to find your way to the loop. Because it's so small, I might recommend keeping one of those telescoping magnetic grabs handy in case you drop it somewhere in the engine bay, since the tool is so small (however, the only magnetic part of the grille I have is on the handles). . You should also be aware that the Krikit 91132 has a tension measurement range of 100-320 lbs, while the 91107 has a lower range (30-160 lbs). My car ('03 G35) needs over 200 pounds of new tension on one of the belts so I got 91132. I also wanted to comment on another Amazon reviewer who mentioned that the sensor was ineffective on him. I have to say it probably has loose straps because the tool is very accurate in my opinion when used correctly and difficult to use incorrectly. But even with loose straps, you may never notice a noticeable squeak. Basically, you can be lucky and only see the problem the next time you change the belt. this product which would have helped me to rate this product before buying but now that i have it and have actually used it i think it is a very handy gauge and anyone who needs to manually adjust belt tension should get one. I know some people can tighten their belts by feel or a rule of thumb for turning the belt, and I've done that, but it gives me great peace of mind knowing my belt is tensioned EXACTLY to spec.