How do you align the alternator???

[Joel]

Took the boat out for sea trials & run out the old gas... ran like a champ!  The electronic ignition is FANTASTIC, idles smooth & consistent, pick up was STRONG & steady and she ran under 160 F the entire time 

Unfortunately, my alternator belt is getting slowly but surely chewed up...  might be misaligned...  not sure... looks pretty straight to me, but I've been known to be wrong before...   Its been doing this since before I bought the boat and I'd really like to get it fixed...  In the meantime I carry an extra belt (just in case).

Any help?  Recommendations?  Suggestions?

Thanks!  Joel

[phil]

You sure there isn't a burr anywhere on the pulleys?

[RonT]

I use a steel straightedge & hold it against the pulleys, if there are gaps I make adjustments.

[Joel]

Phil,  The pulleys are a little worn looking, chipping paint around the edges, etc, but dont appear to be warped.  Nothing out of the ordinary.  I cleaned up the bottom one when I repaired the impellor pump.  Maybe time to do the other two!!  I THINK they are just out of alignment so the belt is wearing badly.

Ron,  I adjusted the alternator prevously cause the previous owner had the thick steel washer on the wrong side of the bracket and the belt alignment was WAY OFF...  I'll take another gander with a steel straight edge and let ya know what I find.  It still runs fine, but I dont like it when things are CORRECT...  Obessive Compulsive Disorder (OCD) kicking in again...  Damn Coast Guard ruined me...  I used to be an easy going guy...  LOL!!!