Parts for your 1991 Suzuki Vitara-Drive belt tensioner

1991 Suzuki Vitara drive-belt-tensioner — is it used on this model?

For the 1991 Suzuki Vitara, an automatic accessory drive-belt tensioner isn’t used. Technical references including the Suzuki factory workshop manual for first‑gen Vitara/Escudo/Sidekick models, the Haynes 1989–1998 Vitara/Geo Tracker guide, and major belt catalogues (Gates and Dayco) all show individual V-belts on the G16-series 1.6‑litre engines with manual adjustment points, not a spring‑loaded serpentine tensioner. Those sources outline belt tension being set by moving the alternator and power steering pump on slotted brackets, and by an adjustable idler for the A/C belt. There’s no standalone automatic drive-belt tensioner assembly in the accessory drive on this year.

Why wasn’t a drive-belt tensioner fitted? The Vitara’s early‑90s accessory layout uses multiple V-belts rather than a single serpentine belt. In that era, manufacturers commonly relied on bracket adjustment to set belt preload. Automatic tensioners became the norm later with widespread adoption of serpentine systems. On this Vitara, owners or technicians set belt tension during servicing and recheck it after a short run‑in.

• Alternator/water pump belt: tensioned by pivoting the alternator along its slotted bracket.
• Power steering belt: tensioned by sliding the P/S pump on its bracket.
• A/C belt (if fitted): tensioned via an adjustable idler pulley screw.

Servicing advice for this setup is straightforward. Inspect belts for glazing, cracking, frayed edges, and contamination. Check tension with moderate thumb pressure at the longest span