How to Measure and Size Drive Belts

[@The-Pizza-Zone]

Hi! Thanks for the video-I've been meaning to replace multiple belts for primarily cassette players for a long time. Unfortunately, a good few of them have melted into goop over time, but unfortunately your relevant demonstration towards the end of the video went waaaaay over my head. Is there an easier way for you to break it down for me, by any chance, perhaps put it into more layman terminology? I'd greatly appreciate it!

[@ryanpieper5036]

If the belt has turned to goop, then measure the distance with a piece of small string wrapped around the pulleys. I suggest buying a replacement belt that is slightly smaller (try -10% at first) because you will need tension and the rubber should stretch. This is a very basic/crude way to find the right size without the equations, it should get you in the ballpark. Also, remember that the profile of the replacement belt needs to be the same as what was originally used (flat, round, or square). Good luck!

[@SirJeff]

Usually I'd just use dental floss and wrap it around the pulleys, then cut to find the full length of the belt I need