Hey everyone, just replaced my timing belt/water pump but now the belt seems extremely loose when the car is running. It runs, the belt turns but it sounds as if it is loose. I know there is supposed to be some slack, but it feels as if I can take the belt off by hand without undoing anything.

My stepdad said the tensioner needs tightened - is this the correct course of action or should we be doing something else? Thanks.

 

The tensioner makes sure the timing belt is nice and snug against the water pump wheel and cam wheel. Listen to your stepdad and tighten that sucker, as you do check the tightness every few turns. The belt should not turn(twist) more then 1/2 way.