Check your Alternator Belt

I took the GTI out for a spin at the weekend and all was going well.  We had stopped in Bradford on our way back from Skipton and the car would not start so a little push and we were away.

I have been messing about with wiring and batteries over the past couple of days so I put it down to an error on my part.

When we switched the lights on the car kangaroo'ed a little so I switched the lights onto side lights all was well again.  

Only 10 mins from home (by car) approaching some temporary lights the car dies.  

So we called the AA, the patrol chap came out and looked at the alternator belt and said it was quite loose. I offered that the charge light never came on, to which his response was, "it must have been turning just enough".  He was right, we had heard it squeal when we left Skipton, but drove on regardless thinking we were ok.  

As per title don't rely on the car telling you something is wrong have a little check if you hear something odd. (note to self)

How do you check the belt is adjusted correctly?

Mine is squealing on ignition and as I pull away in 1st gear - doe snot stop until I am in 2nd?

Give the belt a firm push in the middle of the run between the alternater and water pump, if it gives by about half inch then its about right.

My battery has finally died. I replaced it earlier today with a shiny new Bosch one but never gave the alternator belt a thought. Its not squeeling or any thing but i think you jus reminded me. Think i'll push the boat out and buy me a new one tomorrow.

i just try and turn the fan with my hand on the alternator,if it turns the engine,its tight enough,also the alternator pulleys wear out over the years and the belt sits at the bottom of the V and wont turn the alternator properly  :wink:
Bert