Replaced my belts. I have always replaced only using the 5mm allen key method/twist method and FACOM DM.16 tool. However, I used the TEXA TTC frequency tensioner, this time. So I set belts up just using using the 5mm allen key/twist method first without the FACOM DM.16 and Frequency software....Then measured on the longest run of both belts, vertical/horizontal using the TEXA TTC and the reading was 103Hz and Gates Carbon Drive App averaged at 101Hz. Thats pretty close or close enough for me for the 99Hz Exact recommendations, all done initially without software and FACOM. I then checked using the FACOM DM.16, using button 4 (not 5 as suggested by FACOM) and belts tension sat on the bottom of the top line of the FACOM, as required. Im thinking too much has been put into frequency, tools, etc and in actual fact the allen key method and twist is good enough....or just I got lucky first time!
I’ve found similar results Chris. Thing is, the 748/916/996 engines, never had a frequency value given to them. The tool didn’t exist. The factory tool was a deflection tool. That deflection was 5mm between the cam pulleys. I still use that same tool everyday for these engines and use the frequency tool for the newer stuff we have issued specs for.
I always used the 5mm deflection as you say, then bought FACOM tension tool, then the TEXA TTC all brought on by paranoia. Never had any issues with the 5mm deflection and to think your tolerance is set at 70hz before you should re-tension, which is quite a deviation, as long as you have the 5mm deflection then you are good to go
If re tensioning after use (say on a yearly check) always go a bit lower then the new spec - I would suggest 90Hz for Exact Belts but they should be OK for the life cycle of the belt anyway.
Thanks for the info, I do indeed check yearly, I had some Exact belts on my old 749R, and don't think they hardly lost any tension at all, so used to change them a tad over the 2 year mark.
Out of interest, if you use the FACOM DM.16 you can get it on the vertical, between the 2 cams but the horizontal, between the 2 cams the radiator is in the way...but putting it on the longest run of belt on the horizontal seems to not quite get the right tension? ...that’s if you check it against Frequency. Also using the TEXA TTC, taking the Hz Frequency between the small run of belts between both horizontal and vertical cams, gets a different reading than taking it in both the longest run of belts between the two. so my question, when using the FACOM Dm.16, where is it being placed and also where are you taking the Hz Frequency from...I.e between the cams in the shortest run or the longest run of belts? As all depending where you take it from results in different values. 5mm Allen key and twist method seems to be the most consistent approach.
The Facom tool is a deflection gauge so should be used between the cam pulleys. The factory tool suffers the same issue, but if you unhook the lower rad fixing, you can push it forward enough o get a reading. All Hz readings, regardless of bike, should be taken between the bottom pullies and the fixed idler pulley.
@nelly I go to the bottom of the top fine line using the FACOM tool, using button no.4, as you say between the cams. Luckily I can just get the FACOM in on the horizontal without loosening the Rad...just. Just had a re-check in the areas you suggested for frequency...both 100-102Hz. So at most the FACOM tool is as much as you need
