{"product_id":"gates-38196-accessory-drive-belt-tensioner-assembly","title":"Gates 38196 Accessory Drive Belt Tensioner Assembly - Air Conditioning","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 38196) is engineered for precise belt tension control in select Chevrolet and Pontiac vehicles. Designed to maintain optimal tension on V-ribbed accessory drive belts, this tensioner assembly supports reliable engine accessory operation in models like the Camaro, Corvette, Firebird, and GTO.\u003c\/p\u003e\u003cul\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eThermoplastic construction for durability and resistance to wear\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eSingle pulley design without flange for smooth belt tracking\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eCompatible with V-ribbed belt systems\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eMounting hole quantity: 1 for straightforward installation\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eDimensions: 2.56 inch (65 mm) outside diameter, 0.79 inch (20 mm) width\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eBearing bore inside diameter: 0.67 inch (17 mm)\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eOE exact fit and performance rating\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003c\/ul\u003e\u003ch2\u003eProduct Line Details: DriveAlign Premium OE Automatic Belt Tensioner\u003c\/h2\u003e\u003cp\u003eThe DriveAlign Premium OE Automatic Belt Tensioner line by Gates focuses on delivering original equipment (OE) exact replacement parts for accessory drive belt systems. This product line emphasizes precise fitment and reliable tensioning performance to match factory specifications. The 38196 tensioner assembly is part of this line, ensuring compatibility and consistent operation in Chevrolet Camaro, Corvette, Pontiac Firebird, and GTO vehicles equipped with V-ribbed belts.\u003c\/p\u003e\u003ch2\u003eTechnical Description and Specifications\u003c\/h2\u003e\u003cp\u003eThis accessory drive belt tensioner assembly features a thermoplastic body designed to withstand engine bay conditions while maintaining structural integrity. The single pulley, which is not flanged, provides a smooth contact surface on the backside to reduce belt wear. The pulley measures 2.56 inches (65 mm) in outside diameter and 0.79 inches (20 mm) in width, accommodating V-ribbed belts commonly used in the specified vehicle models. The bearing bore inside diameter is 0.67 inches (17 mm), ensuring proper fitment on the mounting shaft. With one mounting hole, installation is straightforward and aligns with OE mounting points.\u003c\/p\u003e\u003ch2\u003eApplications and Common Issues Addressed\u003c\/h2\u003e\u003cul\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eMaintains proper tension on V-ribbed accessory drive belts\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003ePrevents belt slippage and associated accessory malfunctions\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eReduces premature belt wear caused by improper tension\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eEliminates noise issues related to loose or worn tensioners\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eSupports consistent operation of alternator, power steering, and A\/C compressor\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003c\/ul\u003e\u003ch2\u003eInstallation Notes and Tips\u003c\/h2\u003e\u003cul\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eEnsure vehicle compatibility: Chevrolet Camaro, Corvette, Pontiac Firebird, and GTO models with V-ribbed belt systems\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eVerify part number 38196 matches OEM specifications before installation\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eUse proper tools to relieve belt tension safely during removal and installation\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eInspect belt condition and replace if necessary when installing the tensioner\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eConfirm correct pulley alignment to avoid belt mis-tracking\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003c\/ul\u003e\u003ch2\u003eQuality Assurance and Warranty\u003c\/h2\u003e\u003cp\u003eThe Gates DriveAlign Premium OE Automatic Belt Tensioner 38196 meets OE exact fit and performance standards, providing reliable tensioning for accessory drive belts. Manufactured with durable thermoplastic materials and precision components, this tensioner assembly is designed for long service life. While specific warranty details are not provided here, Gates products typically come with manufacturer-backed warranties to ensure quality and customer confidence.\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"Gates","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":43611065188533,"sku":"BBSC-38196","price":78.03,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0628\/1442\/1173\/files\/ZO_38196_Fro.jpg?v=1774983636","url":"https:\/\/www.partcatalog.com\/products\/gates-38196-accessory-drive-belt-tensioner-assembly","provider":"PartCatalog","version":"1.0","type":"link"}