Calling all Vintage Maytag "Gurus'"---------------

[gyrafoam]

I have a Super-Matic 101P that has a problem with it's belt.

I have checked and the belt currently installed is the correct belt for the machine and is not that old----so not all stretched-out. Yet, if I position the belt so the belt goes AROUND the pump fly-wheel instead of running against the back of the fly-wheel (like it is supposed to do) then the slack is taken up, and the belt stays on----for a while.
I would like to just tighten up the tension with the motor.
However, since the motor has a (non-adjustable) spring providing the proper tension on the belt, I am at a loss as to what to do. My first impulse is to buy a new belt and see if it makes a difference. Of course, if I just leave the belt around the fly-wheel of the pump it does just fine for a while, but eventually drops off as there is (by design) no groove for the belt.

Any ideas?

 

[swestoyz]

Loose - like this loose? Oddly enough this belt would power the 140 just fine!

By design the motor should tighten up and 'clutch' the belt against the pulley when torque is applied - and the spring would gradually continue to pull it back resting position one full speed of the motor is achieved. I'd try a different belt that is either new or hasn't been used on a Helical machine.

If the belt doesn't work a new spring may be needed. I imagine some testing with springs from the hardware store would land you close to factory. Eventually running the belt around the pump may cause stress on the pump bearing that it wasn't originally designed for. Also - maybe try putting a vacuum belt around the pump pulley to give the driven belt something to grab on to? Does the pump turn freely?

Ben

 

[gyrafoam]

Thanks Ben. Some good information.