I noticed my original belt squelling after about 26hrs. I did not have scales to measure the deflection, but I guessed it to be about 1 3/4". I decided to purchase a new belt because I did not think that I could get the old belt to meet specs by removing the shims. Tonight I was in the process of installing the black spring so I decided the remove the shims to tighten the belt. I only had one shim that measured .53 ( I was expecting one shim measuring 1.4 or two shims measuring .6) so I removed it. I measured my deflection the best I could without scales and I believe it is about 1 5/8". If you lightly squeeze the belt together they come within 1/4" of touching. My belt is not squelling and it has never tripped my belt switch. I have been trying to ride in low gear whenever applicable. This just does not make sense to me, the belt seems to be way to
loose. Thanks guys for all of the great posts they have helped me tremendously !!

 

Make sure the belt is completely to the top of the secondary clutch. You may have to spin the clutch around several times to get it there.

 

Only pull with 13lbs, might need a fish scale. Rotate the pulleys so the belt fully relaxes first (goes to top of driven). Then pull with 13lbs.

When I took all my shims out and installed a new belt, my belt deflection was just about exactly at .87". It has stayed tight ever since and works awesome.

You should be able to get a new belt really tight. Kawi planned the belt size and adjustments so we wouldn't be able to get too many miles out of a belt for safty reasons. It has really been inconvenient for many of us.

If it squeals at idle, it may be a little tight (or the idle speed may be too high). Just leave it ,because it will last longer when it is that tight.

 

Can I have your old belt? LOL Unless there was physical damage, it was probably in spec and usable. I have about 1500 mi. HARD miles on mine. A good, accurate scale or strain gauge is essential to get the belt right. Good Luck!

 

DAA! I feel like an idiot. You nailed it Novakawa650, thanks!! I now have no shims and it does squeel a little at idol, but if it annoys me I will just install a small shim. Sorry TRX450 I will reuse my old belt if this one wears out, now that I know what I am doing. Thanks for all of the help and advise.[img]i/expressions/face-icon-small-smile.gif[/img]