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Gates 38129 Accessory Drive Belt Tensioner Assembly
Overview of Gates DriveAlign Premium OE Automatic Belt Tensioner
The Gates DriveAlign Premium OE Automatic Belt Tensioner 38129 is engineered to maintain optimal tension on the accessory drive belt system. Designed specifically for Ford Escort and Mercury Tracer models, this tensioner assembly ensures consistent belt performance and longevity.
- Thermoplastic construction for durability and resistance to wear
- Single smooth backside pulley without flange
- Compatible with V-ribbed belt types
- One mounting hole for secure installation
- Precision dimensions: 3.54 inch (90 mm) outside diameter, 1.02 inch (26 mm) width, and 0.67 inch (17 mm) bearing bore inside diameter
Detailed Product Description
This accessory drive belt tensioner assembly from Gates features a thermoplastic material that offers strength and resistance to heat and environmental factors. The pulley is designed without a flange and has a smooth contact surface on the backside, optimized for V-ribbed belts commonly used in Ford Escort and Mercury Tracer vehicles. The tensioner includes one pulley and one mounting hole, simplifying installation and ensuring a precise fit. With an outside diameter of 3.54 inches (90 mm) and a width of 1.02 inches (26 mm), it matches original equipment specifications for reliable operation.
The Gates DriveAlign Premium OE Automatic Belt Tensioner line focuses on providing exact OE replacement parts that meet factory standards. This product line emphasizes durability and fitment accuracy, making it suitable for maintaining the accessory drive belt system's proper tension and alignment in compatible vehicles.
Applications and Common Issues Addressed
- Maintains proper tension on the accessory drive belt to prevent slippage
- Reduces belt noise caused by improper tension or misalignment
- Prevents premature belt wear and extends belt life
- Eliminates vibration and pulley misalignment issues
- Restores smooth operation of engine-driven accessories in Ford Escort and Mercury Tracer models
Installation Notes and Tips
- Ensure the mounting surface is clean and free of debris before installation
- Verify compatibility with Ford Escort and Mercury Tracer models prior to installation
- Use proper tools to avoid damaging the thermoplastic pulley or bearing bore
- Follow vehicle manufacturer torque specifications for mounting bolt
- Inspect the accessory drive belt for wear and replace if necessary during installation
Quality Assurance and Warranty
The Gates DriveAlign Premium OE Automatic Belt Tensioner 38129 is manufactured to meet original equipment standards, providing reliable performance and fitment. This tensioner assembly carries an OE comparison rating of exact fit, ensuring it matches factory specifications. Gates products typically come with a limited warranty against defects in material and workmanship; please refer to official Gates documentation for specific warranty details.
| Brand | Gates |
| Part Number | 38129 |
| Position | DriveAlign Premium OE Automatic Belt Tensioner |
| Bearing Bore Inside Diameter | .67 |
| Bearing Bore Inside Diameter | 17 |
| Bearing Bore Inside Diameter 1 (in) | .67 |
| Bearing Bore Inside Diameter 1 (mm) | 17 |
| Belt Type | V-Ribbed |
| Belt Type | V-Ribbed |
| Contact Surface | Smooth/Backside |
| Contents | Tensioner Assy. |
| Material | Thermoplastic |
| Mounting Hole Quantity | 1 |
| OE Comparison Rating | OE Exact |
| Outside Diameter | 3.54 |
| Outside Diameter | 90 |
| Outside Diameter (in) | 3.54 |
| Outside Diameter (mm) | 90 |
| Pulley 1 Flanged | No |
| Pulley 1 Flanged | No |
| Pulley Quantity | 1 |
| Width | 1.02 |
| Width | 26 |
| Width (in) | 1.02 |
| Width (mm) | 26 |
This part fits 12 vehicles. Search below:
| Year | Make | Model | Liters | Cylinders | Fuel Type | Position | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1996 | Ford | Escort | 1.9L | L4 | GAS | N/A | DriveAlign Premium OE Automatic Belt Tensioner |
| 1996 | Mercury | Tracer | 1.9L | L4 | GAS | N/A | DriveAlign Premium OE Automatic Belt Tensioner |
| 1995 | Ford | Escort | 1.9L | L4 | GAS | N/A | DriveAlign Premium OE Automatic Belt Tensioner |
| 1995 | Mercury | Tracer | 1.9L | L4 | GAS | N/A | DriveAlign Premium OE Automatic Belt Tensioner |
| 1994 | Ford | Escort | 1.9L | L4 | GAS | N/A | DriveAlign Premium OE Automatic Belt Tensioner |
| 1994 | Mercury | Tracer | 1.9L | L4 | GAS | N/A | DriveAlign Premium OE Automatic Belt Tensioner |
| 1993 | Ford | Escort | 1.9L | L4 | GAS | N/A | DriveAlign Premium OE Automatic Belt Tensioner |
| 1993 | Mercury | Tracer | 1.9L | L4 | GAS | N/A | DriveAlign Premium OE Automatic Belt Tensioner |
| 1992 | Ford | Escort | 1.9L | L4 | GAS | N/A | DriveAlign Premium OE Automatic Belt Tensioner |
| 1992 | Mercury | Tracer | 1.9L | L4 | GAS | N/A | DriveAlign Premium OE Automatic Belt Tensioner |
| 1991 | Ford | Escort | 1.9L | L4 | GAS | N/A | DriveAlign Premium OE Automatic Belt Tensioner |
| 1991 | Mercury | Tracer | 1.9L | L4 | GAS | N/A | DriveAlign Premium OE Automatic Belt Tensioner |
* Always verify fitment with your vehicle's VIN if unsure. Submodel & trim restrictions may apply.
This part directly replaces or is cross-referenced with the following part numbers:
Cross-reference numbers are provided for identification purposes only. Always confirm fitment before ordering.