flatty belts

alright, maybe dumb, but how do i tension the water pump belts on my stock 50 flathead? just want to find out if there's a correct way before i go screwing something up.
thanks,
billy

 

Loosen bolts, tighten belt. Leave a half inch if play. You are done now drive it like you stole it....end of story

 

I usually tighten to about 2 inches of play with stock pumps without the bearings. Too tight and your pumps will be leaking in no time.
Bearing pumps are usually 1 inch play

 

The Ford Manual recommends 1/2" defection with "normal" thumb pressure taken between the water pump and the generator (first belt to adjust) then between the fan and the water pump (second belt to adjust.

 

there is no adjustment in the fan-crank-water pump belt, not that i see.

 

The fan moves up & down. Loosen the big nut, move it up or down, tighten the nut.