The previous owner of Leela installed a high power alternator but (like many things) did not finish the job. With only a single V belt on the larger alternator, the wear rate was ridiculous and the engine was often covered in belt dust. Unfortunately I did not know any better so it has taken me four years to fix...

We now have a serpentine belt and pullies that are more than capable of handling the 125A alternator. As important , we fitted a tension adjuster system so no more jamming a hammer down the side of the alternator to create tension while trying to tighten up the locking bolt. Now all I need to do is turn the adjuster bolt until the tension is correct and tighten up. I have no idea why this is not standard kit on these engines. The whole package was supplied by Electromax, in Canada. The component quality and service were impeccable.

As I had been cranking on the tension to try and prevent the (inevitable) slip we also had the alternator rebuilt with new bearings so that should be good for the trip.