Originally Posted by
kmags
I run my belts as loose as possible without skipping. Both belts are at full loose since the build with new belts. I run the belt tensioner but only to keep the belt from flopping around, not to add tension. The belt does not touch the tensioner at rest. I put a camera on the car and you would not believe how much the belt flops around without the tensioner. Belts are not the most efficient at transferring power, especially when too tight. For you experimenters try running it tight and then loose and see which one gives you lower motor temps.
I run the rear belt pretty loose, but the front one relatively tight. While it's not as efficient, it definitely makes the car drive better off the corner as it tends to drive the front wheels first, causing the car to pull cleaner (more stable on power) off the corner. In an open motor class that can make a pretty big difference.