M400 Ribbed Belt Touching Engine casing

[M400UK]

Hi, I've got a 2004 M400 and I've been doing some work on the car myself. The problem I have now got has developed after I re-fitted the original alternator and Aircon pump back on to the engine and fitted a new drive belt.

I let the engine idle and everything is working fine. I noticed that the edge on the new belt was being cut into by the edge (closest to the rear wheel) of the alternator pulley. I then moved the belt over on the A/C pump and it sits just perfect on the alternator and is spinning around fine EXCEPT now it is rubbing on the Black engine casing between the a/c pump and the top pulley as it appears to be too close. But this is the only position on the A/C pump that does not cause the belt to get damaged. I had fitted everything back on as it originally was and don't know what else to do to stop the belt from rubbing against the casing.

Does anyone have any ideas?

[GTO400]

Not sure but perhaps the belt is directional and you have it on the wrong way around ? Try taking it off and turning it around .

[SFM]

Had exactly the same thing when mine came back from a service, thought that belt had been fitted incorrectly, so as you, I tried moving belt over on ac pulley this caused belt to run out of line, put it back to how it was. after a hunderd or so miles the belt seems to wear itself in and not rub anymore or make any noises. Have since looked at another 3R and it appears to be the same, very very close to the casing but not enough to cause any damage. Hope this puts your mind at rest.

[caccobra]

Here's the section from the US Assembly Manual that deals with the drive belt:

www.nobleforums.com/showthread.php?p=14150&posted=1#post14150

I posted it on Nobleforums.com for you.

HTH.

Craig