Make sure that all equipment is turned off, and disconnected from the power source even if you are only going to touch it for a moment.

The drive should be fully protected by a guard.
This not only ensures safe operation but also protects the drive from debris and keeps the belt running smoothly.

The drive should be fully protected by a guard.
This not only ensures safe operation but also protects the drive from debris and keeps the belt running smoothly.

Unless belts enter and leave pulley in a relatively straight line, wear is accelerated. In Diagram 1 the shafts of the two drives are not parallel.
In Diagram 2 although the shafts are parallel the pulleys are incorrectly aligned.
Use a steel straight edge to ensure correct alignment.

This damages the belt internally and greatly shortens belt service life.
Fingers can also be seriously injured if caught in the pulley. Always fit the belt on the driven pulley first.

The correct tension can be calculated from the slack and the load, or the Bando tension meter can be used.
The optimum tension is the lowest tension at which the belts will not slip under full load.
Over or under-tensioning causes, respectively, damage to the shaft bearings and belt slippage.
After installation the drive should be run for 15 minutes to seat the belts before peak load is applied.
If they slip, tighten them. Check frequently during the first day of operation.

Poor storage causes belt deterioration. To prevent this the following conditions should be observed:

1. a) Belts should be stored in a cool dark place, away from heaters and direct sunlight.
   Heat will dry out the belts and cause them to become brittle and hard.
   Optimum conditions, temperature below 85°F (30°C), relative humidity below 70%.
2. b) Belts may be stored either by coiling them on shelves, or hanging them on wide supports or multiple hooks. (Avoid laying them on the floor)
3. c) Ensure that belts do not come into contact with oil or chemicals.