Final answer:
Indicators of serpentine belt stretch include several methods, but the most specific one is using the scale on the tensioner housing, which shows if the belt has stretched beyond acceptable limits.
Step-by-step explanation:
The serpentine belt is a crucial component of an automobile’s engine that powers the alternator, power steering pump, air conditioning compressor, and other accessories. Over time, serpentine belts can stretch and lose tension, which affects their performance. It is important to recognize the indicators of belt stretch to maintain the proper function of these engine components. Although all the options provided could be related to a serpentine belt’s condition, there is one that specifically indicates belt stretch.
Using a belt tension gauge is a method to measure the tension of the serpentine belt, but it doesn’t specifically indicate stretch. Belt deflection is a manual method that measures how much the belt can be pushed in at a midpoint between pulleys, which can hint at a stretch if the deflection is excessive. A squealing noise at idle can be a sign of a belt issue, but it doesn’t precisely indicate a stretch; the noise could also be caused by other factors like belt misalignment or pulley issues. Lastly, using the scale on the tensioner housing is designed to provide an indication of wear or stretch of the serpentine belt. This method involves checking the pointer on the tensioner housing against the wear indicator marks. As the belt stretches, the tensioner moves, and the pointer will align with marks indicating that the belt has stretched beyond acceptable limits.
Based on the options provided, the most specific indicator of serpentine belt stretch is using the scale on the tensioner housing. Therefore, the correct option is: using the scale on the tensioner housing.