Checking The Belt Tension - Rohloff Gates SPEEDHUB 500/14 Manuel D'utilisation

Checking the belt tension

Proper belt tension is essential for optimum operation of the Gates Carbon Drive System.
Lack of belt tension can lead to so-called "ratcheting". The teeth of the belt will slide over
the teeth of the rear sprocket. This causes not only an unpleasant sound, the ratcheting
can also cause damage to the carbon tensile cords. This would render a belt useless. If
ratcheting has occurred you should replace the belt before the next time it is to be used.
Too much tension can also cause damage to the bearings within the rear
hub. It also increases the wear of your drive system and the system can drag.
Checking the belt tension with the Eco Tension Tester
Construction: The Eco Tension Tester (Art. No. 10400010) includes a ruler
(Illustration 1), a main tower (Illustration 2) and a measuring weight. Hang
the main tower with the offset in the belt (Illustration 3). The belt is deflected
vertically because of the weight. The deflection is an indication of the belt
tension. To get a correct measurement, align the upper belt strand (tight
20
side) horizontally to the ground. Place the ruler over both sprockets on the
belt. Because of the weight, the indicator will also be pulled downwards.
mounting
mounting
Note for initial mounting of the
belt
Explanation: A one-time settling of the carbon
fiber takes place, causing a reduction in
the belt tension. In order to counteract this
reduction, the belt must be tensioned a little
tighter during initial mounting. The optimal
belt tension has been reached if the inspection
window shows 50% green and 50% yellow.