Hello,

I've been having intermittent squealing for a few months on my 2009 civic LX-S. I noticed the alternator bearing had a little bit of play so I replaced it with a used one with a good bearing but it didn't solve the issue. The belt was old, probably original, but seemed in ok condition. I removed and reinstalled it a few times in the process. Always a bit tricky because of the limited space but never had any major issues. Replacing it seemed like the next step.

I bought a Gates K070852 because that's all they had at the parts store. The problem is I can't put it back on. It's definitely tighter than the old one which I was able to install with my fingers with a bit of force. That's absolutely impossible with this one. They seemed like they were the same length but I checked quickly.

What's the issue? the old one was stretched / worn? the Gates is not quite within specs? I just don't understand how that can get on there, it seems like it's missing half an inch to an inch in length.