Is there a tool to help secure serpentine belt to pulleys during install?

This is a first world problem here,but I’ve had several instances over the years where I would’ve paid good money to have a clip, clamp or something to secure the drive belt to the pulleys, so that the belt doesn’t just slip off as I try to route it. I’ve googled and can’t find any such tool. What tricks do you guys have?

 

2nd set of hands? Put the wife and kids to work.

 

Tape

 

Tape

or wood working clamps the plastic alligator style you can get them at Home Depot for $2 each

 

I like the woodworking clamps idea! I’ve tried tape but it wouldn’t stick to the pulley good enough. Wife and kids have actually helped me before...but it seems as though I’m usually working on my vehicles when they’re either gone or asleep.

 

Isn't there a slot where you place a pin or a hex to hold the tensioner so you work on it... theres also a cheater bar held by bungee cords.... aaat your own risk.. of course.

 

Holding the tensioner isn’t the issue, I do think you’re right about the pin thing (I have too many cars so get confused sometimes lol). The issue for me is simply trying to keep the belt in place so that when I route the belt from one side to the other, it doesn’t slip off.

I’ve had times where I’m at the end of a job (replacing alternator or water pump) and I get stuck for 20-30 minutes trying to do what should be the easy part- putting the belt back on. I’ve always been able to make it work, but would love to eliminate that frustration.

 

When I've done it, I focus on the grooves pulleys first and half ass the the other ones, since they're easier to manipulate once you're not laying on your back and fighting with the cheater bar.. Yes they've slid out, but usually when I'm still laying down, so the 2nd time around I have them sort of set, I slowly release the tension as to catch them in place...

 

These are available, mainly from the tool trucks. The magnet goes against the front face of the pulley, and it holds the belt in the grooves.


I’ve never used one, so can’t comment on their effectiveness.

 

What’s this called?

 

I found the tool from Matco:

https://www.matcotools.com/catalog/product/MTCMBH2/MAGNETIC-BELT-HOLDER-2-PACK/

I ordered it today. Another tool to add to my collection. @landphil thank you for posting that tool, This will come in handy someday I’m sure!