Honda Element. Manual - part 342

Fig. 9: Checking Continuity Between ECM/PCM Connector Terminal B18 And Body Ground 

Is there continuity?  

YES -Replace the alternator (see ALTERNATOR REMOVAL AND INSTALLATION ), or repair the 
alternator (see ALTERNATOR OVERHAUL ). 

NO -Repair open in the wire between the alternator and the ECM/PCM. 

DRIVE BELT INSPECTION 

1. Inspect the belt for cracks or damage. If the belt is cracked or damaged, replace it.  

2. Check that the auto-tensioner indicator (A) is within the standard range (B) as shown. If it is out of the 

standard range, replace the drive belt (see DRIVE BELT INSPECTION ). 

 

2007 Honda Element EX 

2007-08 ELECTRICAL Charging System - Element

  

Fig. 10: Identifying Auto-Tensioner Indicator

DRIVE BELT REPLACEMENT 

Special Tools Required  

Belt tension release tool 

Snap-on YA9317 or equivalent, commercially available 

1. Move the auto-tensioner (A) using the belt tension release tool (B) in the direction shown to relieve 

tension from the drive belt (C), then remove the drive belt. 

Fig. 11: Moving Auto-Tensioner Using Belt Tension Release Tool 

2. Install the new belt in the reverse order of removal.  

DRIVE BELT AUTO-TENSIONER INSPECTION 

Special Tools Required  

Belt tension release tool 

Snap-on YA9317 or equivalent, commercially available 

1. Turn the ignition switch ON (II). Make sure the A/C switch is OFF. Turn the ignition switch OFF.  

2. Check the position of the auto-tensioner indicator's pointer (A). Start the engine, then check the position 

again with the engine idling. If the position of the indicator moves or fluctuates a lot, replace the auto-
tensioner (see DRIVE BELT AUTO-TENSIONER REPLACEMENT ). 

 

2007 Honda Element EX 

2007-08 ELECTRICAL Charging System - Element

  

Fig. 12: Identifying Position Of Auto-Tensioner Indicator's Pointer 

3. Check for abnormal noise from the tensioner pulley. If you hear abnormal noise, replace the auto-

tensioner pulley (see DRIVE BELT AUTO-TENSIONER REPLACEMENT ).  

4. Remove the drive belt (see DRIVE BELT INSPECTION ).  

5. Move the auto-tensioner within its limit using the belt tension release tool in the direction shown. Check 

that the tensioner moves smoothly and without any abnormal noise. If the tensioner does not move 
smoothly, or if you hear abnormal noise, replace the auto-tensioner (see DRIVE BELT AUTO-
TENSIONER REPLACEMENT ). 

Fig. 13: Moving Auto-Tensioner Using Belt Tension Release Tool 

6. Remove the auto-tensioner (see DRIVE BELT AUTO-TENSIONER REPLACEMENT ).  

7. Clamp the auto-tensioner (A) by using two 8 mm bolts (B) and a vise (C) as shown. Do not clamp the 

auto-tensioner itself. 

 

2007 Honda Element EX 

2007-08 ELECTRICAL Charging System - Element

  

Fig. 14: Clamping Auto-Tensioner Bolts And Vise 

8. Set the torque wrench (D) in the pulley bolt in the direction shown.  

9. Align the indicator (E) on the tensioner base with center mark (F) on the tensioner arm by using the 

torque wrench, and measure the torque. If the torque value is out of specification, replace the auto-
tensioner (see DRIVE BELT AUTO-TENSIONER REPLACEMENT ). 

Auto-tensioner Spring Torque  

32.5-39.7 N.m (3.31-4.05 kgf.m, 23.9-29.3 lbf.ft)  

DRIVE BELT AUTO-TENSIONER REPLACEMENT 

1. Remove the drive belt (see DRIVE BELT INSPECTION ).  

2. Remove the power steering (P/S) pump without disconnecting the P/S hoses. 

NOTE:

If the indicator exceeds the center mark, recheck the torque.

 

2007 Honda Element EX 

2007-08 ELECTRICAL Charging System - Element