2500 belt turning in Neutral

[greenkit]

I take it that the belt in my 2500's torque converter should slip over the drive clutch in Neutral, and the driven pulley remain static, to enable clunk-free Fwd/Rev selection when at idle? Lately I have replaced the belt and serviced both drive and driven pulleys, replaced worn parts, Comet lubed, etc. The converter works fine at medium / high motor revs. At idle the drive sheaves are fully apart, though the belt does appear to gravitate towards the fixed sheave and touches its surface lightly when running. Could this offset be enough to prevent slippage? I have a small amount of in/out movement on the driven pully: maybe 1/8 inch. Is this normal?

I've had this problem since I got the Mule, previous history unknown. The motor and transmission mounts are ok visually. However, I think I need to check the centre-to-centre shaft separation in the converter: does anyone have a value for this, please? Can it be adjusted by tweaking the mounts?

Any input appreciated; thanks for looking.

[RCW]

You are likely correct in the assumption that the center to center distance of the two clutches needs to be checked.

To check the measurements you have to first make sure all the other specifications are within tolerance, then check the offset and the center to center distance.

Your service manual provides the detail on how to set the clutch offset and the center to center distance. It is not a short and sweet process, but is also not that difficult.

If the mounts collapse they will allow the torque converter mounting plate to shift and change those dimensions.

[greenkit]

Thanks, RCW. I have the service manual for the (1999) 2500 as downloaded from the web, but as far as I can see this copy doesn't quote shaft spacing or offset values. It does refer to use of the assembly jig 57001-1365 for correct alignment when refitting the motor, and I assume the same procedure applies for transmission replacement. I measured the shaft spacing on my machine as 260 mm. I'm satisfied that both pulleys are in good shape. If needed I can buy a jig, but I'm still curious as to others' experience of the 2500 (and it relatives): does the belt slip in Neutral?

[RCW]

If the transmission is in neutral the belt will roll the driven pulley. However, a light pressure on the pulley should stop it from rolling. You will get a very slight click from the dog clutch inside the transmission as you shift from neutral to any gear, but it should never grind. You want to be able to shift crisply and get a very slight click, and go right into gear.

You also want to go pull a good load with a new belt to break it in before you start adjusting, as the new belts are both sticky and a bit tight.

[greenkit]

Thanks RCW, very useful.... As things stand it takes much more than a light touch to stop the driven pulley and this translates into more of an engagement clunk than sounds correct to me. Maybe I'm too picky! You're right though, the belt is sticky and likely does need a good 'running in'. I will do this in the coming week....