[JoeCab]

We are proud to introduce our new Staybelt Ultimate timing belt tensioner for all 2.5 and 3.0L SOHC V6 engines - as used in the GTV/6, Milano, and 164.

This product is an evolution of the original Alfa Heaven Staybelt tensioner, however there are several key differences and improvements - notably that the new Staybelt Ultimate is a stand-alone product and does not require you to re-use the bearing and eccentric arm from an original Hydraulic tensioner. This product has been extensively tested and we feel it is the best tensioner for use in these engines, period. Please see the full product description below.

https://centerlinealfa.com/catalog/staybelt-timing-belt-tensioner

PLEASE NOTE: This product was developed with approval from Tom Zat/Alfa Heaven.

Our exclusive new Staybelt Ultimate tensioner is a mechanical, semi-fixed timing belt tensioner that maximizes the utilization of newer belt technology and eliminates the shortcomings of both original Alfa Romeo timing belt de-tensioner designs. This design has been rigorously tested on the street and the race track to give you maximum protection against slipped timing belts.

The Staybelt Ultimate is easy to install, simple to adjust, and fits any 12V (SOHC) V6 engine used in the GTV/6 1981-86, Milano 2.5 and 3.0 1987-89, and 164 (all) 1991-93. Does not fit 24V (DOHC) engines used in 1994-95 164 models. Does not require re-use of any part of the original timing belt de-tensioner.

The Staybelt Ultimate is manufactured exclusively for Centerline in the USA. It is Zinc plated for corrosion resistance and is backed by a lifetime warranty against defects in materials and workmanship (including the bearing).

 

[Alfar7]

Tensioner

This is what Alfa should have done from the start. I used a Zat (Alfa Heaven) tensioner on all my race V6 engines.

This will stop belt slippage if tensioned correctly!

 

[JoeCab]

There are 2 other threads about this tensioner, so there is obviously interest and some valid questions which I will attempt to answer here.

Why did you produce this tensioner?
At Centerline International, we talk to many customers daily, and it became clear to us that many V6 Alfa owners have considerable anxiety over timing belt failures. In many cases this is actually limiting how much use their cars get. We want our customers to be able to use and enjoy their cars without worry.

Why is this tensioner design different than Alfa's original tensioners?
Both original Alfa Romeo designs are actually timing belt de-tensioners. They loosen the belt slightly as the engine heats up. With modern belts this de-tensioning is not necessary, and both original designs have distinct failure risks. The Staybelt Ultimate is strictly a timing belt tensioner - a simpler design that is manually locked and will not release tension, which avoids the failure modes of the original designs.

How is this different from the original Staybelt tensioner?
The original Staybelt tensioner, sold by Alfaheaven (AKA the ZAT tensioner), proved this concept over literally hundreds of thousands of miles. Our update to the design was necessary because the original design required the eccentric arm and bearing from a factory Hydraulic-style tensioner, and both of those are getting quite difficult to find these days. The Staybelt Ultimate is sold as a complete unit that does not require these additional parts.

Does the warranty cover the bearing?
The bearing used on the Staybelt Ultimate is an OEM-quality automotive bearing that will not have the availability issues of the original Alfa bearing going forward. It is also covered under the lifetime warranty. That's right - if you are the original purchaser of the tensioner and the bearing wears out we will replace it. However our testing indicated the bearing should easily last multiple belt changes. If someone other that the original purchaser needs a replacement bearing they will be available at a very reasonable cost.

 

[JoeCab]

Installation Instructions

I have posted the installation instructions online. Each tensioner also comes with a printed version of these instructions.

The procedure is actually quite simple; however basic knowledge of the timing belt replacement procedure is required and as with all work involving valve and cam timing we encourage everyone to work carefully, double check your work, and STOP if something doesn't seem right.

Staybelt Ultimate V6 Timing Belt Tensioner Installation Instructions

 

[tomhenneka]

Bearing

Can this bearing be used on the hydraulic tensioner? Currently, if I want to replace the bearing on the hydraulic tensioner, I have to buy a 24V bearing, press out the center from this, press out the center from the old 12V bearing, and then press that center into the new bearing.

 

[marksanfil]

I have installed one of these tensioners, got the tension set properly, and the timing belt is riding about 1 or 2 mm off the back of the cam pulleys, distributor pulley, and the tensioner. I lined the belt up in the center all the way around and turned the engine over two complete revolutions by hand, and it seems that the tensioner is the first place the belt starts going towards the engine block. Does anyone know why this might be? Is there a way to adjust the angle of the tensioner pulley? Thanks!