{"product_id":"gates-38298-accessory-drive-belt-tensioner-assembly","title":"Gates 38298 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 38298) is engineered for reliable accessory drive belt tension in select Ford and Mercury vehicles. Designed specifically for models like the Ford Cougar and Mercury Thunderbird, this tensioner assembly ensures proper belt alignment and consistent performance.\u003c\/p\u003e\u003cul\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eConstructed from durable steel for long-lasting strength\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eSingle pulley design with a smooth backside contact surface\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eCompatible with V-ribbed belt systems\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eOutside pulley diameter of 2.99 inches (76 mm)\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eWidth of 1.46 inches (37 mm) for precise fitment\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eOne mounting hole for secure installation\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eBearing bore inside diameter of 0.67 inches (17 mm)\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 exact original equipment (OE) fit and function. This product line is designed to meet or exceed OE specifications, providing a direct replacement tensioner assembly that maintains proper belt tension and alignment. The 38298 model is an OE exact match, ensuring compatibility and performance for the accessory drive belt system in Ford Cougar and Mercury Thunderbird vehicles.\u003c\/p\u003e\u003ch2\u003eTechnical Description and Specifications\u003c\/h2\u003e\u003cp\u003eThis accessory drive belt tensioner assembly features a steel construction that offers durability under engine operating conditions. The single pulley included has a smooth backside contact surface and is not flanged, which suits the V-ribbed belt type it is designed to tension. The pulley measures 2.99 inches (76 mm) in outside diameter and 1.46 inches (37 mm) in width, with a bearing bore inside diameter of 0.67 inches (17 mm). The tensioner mounts with one hole, simplifying installation while ensuring a secure fit.\u003c\/p\u003e\u003ch2\u003eCommon Applications and Problem Solving\u003c\/h2\u003e\u003cul\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eRestores proper tension to worn or slack V-ribbed accessory drive belts\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eEliminates belt slippage and associated noise\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003ePrevents premature belt wear and extends belt life\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eCorrects misalignment issues caused by faulty tensioners\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eReduces risk of accessory component damage due to improper belt tension\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003c\/ul\u003e\u003ch2\u003eInstallation Notes and Tips\u003c\/h2\u003e\u003cul\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eVerify compatibility with Ford Cougar and Mercury Thunderbird models before installation\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eEnsure the belt type is V-ribbed to match the tensioner specifications\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eInspect the mounting area for corrosion or damage prior to installation\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eUse proper torque specifications for the single mounting hole to avoid over-tightening\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eCheck belt alignment and tension after installation to confirm proper operation\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 38298) is manufactured to meet OE standards, providing reliable performance and durability. This tensioner assembly carries an OE comparison rating of exact fit, ensuring it meets the original equipment requirements for Ford Cougar and Mercury Thunderbird vehicles. Warranty details are provided by Gates and typically cover defects in materials and workmanship under normal use.\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"Gates","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":43611079966901,"sku":"BBSC-38298","price":168.36,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0628\/1442\/1173\/files\/ZO_38298_Fro.jpg?v=1774983649","url":"https:\/\/www.partcatalog.com\/products\/gates-38298-accessory-drive-belt-tensioner-assembly","provider":"PartCatalog","version":"1.0","type":"link"}