Stevo F

I recently replaced both the alternator and power steering belts on our 2001 Accord, 4 cylinder. Not long after, I noticed some dark areas on the outer edge of the alternator drive belt- not all the way around the belt, but in some areas.

Today I noticed some sticky, oily residue on the outside portion of the belt, just part way around the belt, not all thee way around. I got underneath the car and looked around but didn't see anything that might be contacting the belt. There some some oily residue on the oil pan (proabably from the fact that the mechanic that had removed the oil pan previously used RTV instead of a gasket, but nothing that could get on that particular belt.

My only theory is maybe some fluid is leaking from the power steering pump and dripping down on the alternator belt, since it passes directly below the power steering pump. I examining the power steering pump, but couldn't locate any points at which fluid appears to be leaking from it, just some slight oil residue and dirt on it.

Does anyone have any ideas what is getting on the drive belt? I don't feel comfortable with my son driving it the long distances he has to drive with it with oil getting into the belt and deteriorating it.

MAD_MIKE

In defense of the mechanic, 98-02 engines forego the gasket and only use sealant.
It could be from a greasy hand, could have been spilt fluid, even road goo.
Clean off the affected areas with a green cleaner(simple green, 409) and if any oil/grease has gotten on the inside of the belt you can use WD40(solvent, won't hurt the belt) to clean off the oily/grease spots if you get squeaking belts.

Stevo F

I cleaned off the belt pretty well. A couple of days later I saw some oily makes on the belt again and this time tjhere was some oily residue on the bottom of the power steering pump, behind the pulley. I believe there may be an small leak from the front seal on the power steering pump that is occasionally dripping onto the drive belt..

I went ahead and found a used pump off eBay so I'll give that a shot.

Davesmit

My 91 Accord has similar sticky residue that gets on the power steering serpentine belt (it's power steering fluid). I do not notice any drop in the power steering reservoir. I just leave it as is, not effecting anything. Been doing that for the last year or so. No big deal in my opinion.

By the way, I got rid of my AC compressor and got a shorter serpentine belt. So only the alternator is on it. The power steering pump is on another belt all on its own too.

Dave.