{"product_id":"gates-38168-accessory-drive-belt-tensioner-assembly","title":"Gates 38168 Accessory Drive Belt Tensioner Assembly","description":"\u003ch2\u003eOverview of Gates DriveAlign Premium OE Automatic Belt Tensioner\u003c\/h2\u003e\u003cp\u003eThe Gates DriveAlign Premium OE Automatic Belt Tensioner (Part Number 38168) is engineered to maintain optimal tension on the accessory drive belt system. Designed specifically for Ford Tempo and Mercury Topaz models, this tensioner assembly ensures consistent belt performance and longevity.\u003c\/p\u003e\u003cul\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eConstructed from durable thermoplastic material for reliable operation\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eCompatible with V-ribbed belt types commonly used in Ford Tempo and Mercury Topaz vehicles\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eFeatures a smooth backside contact surface to reduce belt wear\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eIncludes one pulley without flanges, measuring 2.99 inches (76 mm) in outside diameter\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eSingle mounting hole design for straightforward installation\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eBearing bore inside diameter of 0.67 inches (17 mm) for precise fitment\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eWidth of pulley is 0.87 inches (22 mm), matching OEM specifications\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003c\/ul\u003e\u003ch2\u003eDriveAlign Premium OE Automatic Belt Tensioner Product Line\u003c\/h2\u003e\u003cp\u003eThe DriveAlign Premium OE Automatic Belt Tensioner line by Gates focuses on delivering exact OE replacement parts that meet original equipment specifications. This product line emphasizes precision fit and function, ensuring that the tensioner assembly performs reliably within the accessory drive belt system. Part number 38168 is an OE exact replacement designed to maintain proper belt tension and alignment for Ford and Mercury vehicles.\u003c\/p\u003e\u003ch2\u003eDetailed Product Description\u003c\/h2\u003e\u003cp\u003eThis accessory drive belt tensioner assembly is designed to maintain consistent tension on V-ribbed belts, which are critical for driving multiple engine accessories. The thermoplastic construction offers durability and resistance to heat and wear. The pulley included in this assembly has a smooth backside contact surface and no flanges, which helps reduce belt edge wear and noise. With a single mounting hole and precise bearing bore dimensions, this tensioner ensures a secure and accurate fit for Ford Tempo and Mercury Topaz models. The dimensions of the pulley—2.99 inches (76 mm) outside diameter and 0.87 inches (22 mm) width—match OEM specifications, supporting proper belt tracking and tension.\u003c\/p\u003e\u003ch2\u003eCommon Applications and Issues Addressed\u003c\/h2\u003e\u003cul\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eMaintains proper tension on the accessory drive belt to prevent slipping\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eReduces belt noise caused by improper tension or misalignment\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003ePrevents premature belt wear and extends belt life\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eEliminates issues related to belt squeal during engine operation\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eSupports smooth operation of engine accessories such as alternator and power steering pump\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003c\/ul\u003e\u003ch2\u003eInstallation Notes and Tips\u003c\/h2\u003e\u003cul\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eEnsure compatibility with Ford Tempo and Mercury Topaz models before installation\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eInspect the accessory drive belt for wear and replace if necessary during tensioner installation\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eUse proper tools to remove and install the tensioner assembly to avoid damage\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eVerify correct pulley alignment and tension after installation\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eFollow vehicle manufacturer torque specifications for mounting hardware\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003c\/ul\u003e\u003ch2\u003eQuality Assurance and Warranty\u003c\/h2\u003e\u003cp\u003eThe Gates DriveAlign Premium OE Automatic Belt Tensioner (Part Number 38168) is manufactured to meet OE standards for fit, form, and function. This part undergoes rigorous quality control to ensure durability and reliable performance. Gates provides a limited warranty covering defects in material and workmanship, supporting confidence in the product's longevity and service life.\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"Gates","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":43611056111797,"sku":"BBSC-38168","price":86.56,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0628\/1442\/1173\/files\/ZO_38168_Fro_17c0333f-5cb4-4200-bacc-5f450583c9d2.jpg?v=1774983627","url":"https:\/\/www.partcatalog.com\/products\/gates-38168-accessory-drive-belt-tensioner-assembly","provider":"PartCatalog","version":"1.0","type":"link"}