Parts for your 1993 Mitsubishi Pajero-Drive belt tensioner

1993 Mitsubishi Pajero drive-belt tensioner: what’s fitted and what isn’t

For the 1993 Mitsubishi Pajero, a spring-loaded accessory drive-belt tensioner isn’t used. Factory documentation and catalogues make this clear: the Mitsubishi Pajero/Montero Factory Service Manual for the era (Group 11 – Engine, Drive Belts), the Haynes Mitsubishi Pajero/Montero 1983–1996 manual, plus Mitsubishi’s ASA electronic parts catalogue and common aftermarket catalogues (Gates and Dayco) all show belt tension on these models is set manually by moving the alternator or power-steering pump on their slotted brackets, and by adjusting the dedicated A/C idler pulley. An automatic drive-belt tensioner assembly is not listed for the 1993 Pajero’s accessory belts. Only the timing belt uses a separate tensioner, which is a different component and system entirely.

Why no drive-belt tensioner on this model year? The 1993 Pajero’s accessory layout is an older, rugged multi-belt design. Rather than a single serpentine belt with a spring-loaded tensioner, it runs individual V or V‑ribbed belts for the alternator, power steering and air-conditioning. This suits the Pajero’s go-anywhere brief: it’s simple, field-serviceable with basic tools, and cheaper to maintain. If a belt squeals or stretches, the fix is to crack the pivot and lock bolts on the relevant accessory or idler and set tension with the adjuster screw—no replacement tensioner assembly required.

Owners should still keep on top of belt health, because all the usual wear rules apply:

• Inspect under the bonnet for cracks, glazing, fraying or chunking on each belt.
• Check tension and re-adjust using the alternator/power-steering bracket or the A/C idler’s adjuster, don’t overtighten, as that can stress bearings.
• Listen for chirps or squeals on cold start or full lock—often a sign of a loose or glazed belt.
• Replace aged belts proactively, it’s an easy job and cheap insurance, especially before a big trip.

If someone mentions a “tensioner” on a 1993 Pajero, they’re usually talking about the timing belt tensioner inside the front cover. That’s a different kettle of fish to the accessory drive, with its own service interval and procedure.

FAQs

Does a 1993 Mitsubishi Pajero have an accessory drive-belt tensioner?
No. The accessory belts are manually tensioned by adjusting the alternator and power-steering pump on their brackets, and the A/C belt via an adjustable idler pulley. This layout is documented in the Mitsubishi Factory Service Manual and aftermarket manuals for the 1993 model year.

How are the belts tensioned on a 1993 Pajero?
Each belt is set using the component it drives. Loosen the pivot and lock bolts on the alternator or power-steering pump, turn the adjuster to achieve the correct deflection, then retighten. For the A/C belt, use the dedicated idler’s adjuster. It’s a straightforward driveway job with basic spanners.

Is the timing belt tensioner the same as a drive-belt tensioner?
Different part and purpose. The timing belt uses a dedicated tensioner (mechanical or hydraulic depending on engine) behind the covers, maintaining cam-to-crank timing. The 1993 Pajero simply doesn’t have a spring-loaded accessory drive-belt tensioner, the outside belts are adjusted manually.