Parts for your 1988 Mitsubishi Pajero-Drive belt tensioner

1988 Mitsubishi Pajero drive-belt tensioner — is it actually used?

Short answer: a separate, spring-loaded drive-belt tensioner isn’t used on the 1988 Mitsubishi Pajero. Factory documentation for the L040-series Pajero/Montero (1983–1991) shows the accessory belts are tensioned manually by adjusting the alternator, power-steering pump, and the air‑con idler bracket rather than by a dedicated automatic tensioner. This setup is described in the Mitsubishi Pajero/Montero Factory Service Manual (L040 series, 1983–1991), the Haynes Repair Manual for Mitsubishi Montero/Pajero 1983–1995, and the Gregory’s Workshop Manual covering 1983–1996 models. The Mitsubishi ASA electronic parts catalogue for 1988 L040 models also lists belts, pulleys and brackets, but no spring-loaded tensioner assembly.

Why it’s not used comes down to the belt layout. Most 1988 Pajeros ran multiple V-belts rather than a single serpentine belt. On these engines, belt tension is set by moving the accessory on a slotted bracket or by turning an adjustable idler, then locking it up—no need for a separate tensioner unit. Automatic tensioners became more common when manufacturers shifted to serpentine belts in the early–mid 1990s.

• Common 1988 Pajero engines: 2.5L 4D56 diesel, 2.6L 4G54 petrol, and early 3.0L 6G72 V6 (market-dependent). All use manual belt adjustment for accessories.

What to service instead? Keep an eye on the belts themselves and the hardware that sets their tension. Check for cracking, glazing, fraying, or squeal on start-up. Inspect the alternator and power-steer pump brackets for wear, and spin any idler pulleys to feel for roughness. When fitting new belts, set tension per the factory manual’s deflection spec, recheck after the first few heat cycles, and avoid over-tightening—too much tension can knock out alternator, water pump or power-steer bearings. A good habit in Aussie and Kiwi conditions is to inspect belt condition and tension at each service or before a long trip, especially if the vehicle’s been through mud, water crossings, or a lot of dust.

If someone’s converted the vehicle to an aftermarket serpentine setup (less common, but it happens with high-output alternator upgrades), that kit may add a modern spring tensioner. Otherwise, for a stock 1988 Pajero, shopping for a “drive-belt tensioner” as a separate part will draw a blank—because it’s simply not part of the original design.

• Popular questions

Does my 1988 Pajero have a drive-belt tensioner?
From factory, no. It uses manually adjusted V-belts. You’ll see slotted brackets on the alternator and power-steer pump, plus an adjustable A/C idler. A spring-loaded pulley with a hex boss (typical of later serpentine systems) won’t be present unless the vehicle’s been modified.

How do you tension the belts on a 1988 Pajero?
Loosen the accessory’s pivot and lock bolts, lever the unit (or turn the A/C idler adjuster) to set tension, then retighten. Use the factory deflection spec from the service manual, check alignment, and recheck tension after a few heat cycles. Don’t overdo it—over‑tight belts can damage bearings.

What should be replaced during belt service if there’s no tensioner?
Replace worn belts, inspect/replace any idler pulleys, and check the alternator and power‑steer brackets and mounting bolts. If there’s squeal or black dust, look at belt condition, pulley alignment, and glazing before cranking up the tension.