Abstract: A method of checking belt tension of a belt extending between pulleys includes providing a reference indicator defining a reference position relative to the upper surface of the belt in an undeflected state. A force/probe assembly is provided and is operable to measure a force applied to the distal end. The distal end is positioned on the upper surface of the belt and a force is applied generally perpendicular thereto. The belt may be deflected a predetermined distance, as determined by a change in position of the assembly relative to the reference indicator, and the force is measured, or a force is applied until the force is equal to a predetermined force, and the deflection of the belt is determined by a change in position of the force/probe assembly. The belt tension is determined based on the force and distance during the deflecting step.

Abstract: A method of checking belt tension of a belt extending between two or more pulleys includes providing a reference indicator defining a reference position relative to the upper surface of the belt in an undeflected state. A force/probe assembly is provided and has measurement markings. The distal end of the force/probe assembly is positioned on the upper surface of the belt at a midpoint of the span. A force is applied generally perpendicular to the upper surface of the belt using the force/probe assembly. The belt may be deflected a predetermined distance, as determined by using the measurement markings, and the force applied is measured, or a force is applied to the belt until the force is equal to a predetermined force, and the deflection of the belt is measured using the measurement markings. The belt tension is determined based on the force and distance during the deflecting step.