Gates Krikit V-Ribbed Belt Tension Gauge - Fast, Accurate Checks

In this review the Gates Krikit V-Ribbed Belt Tension Gauge is evaluated for technicians and DIYers who need a quick, reliable way to check belt tension. The bottom line: it is a simple, rugged gauge that makes getting a consistent tension reading easy thanks to a bright green pressure pad and indicator arm, and clear calibration from 100 to 320 lb. (50 to 150 kg.). For anyone who maintains passenger cars, light trucks, heavy trucks or buses and wants to extend belt life, this tool removes guesswork and speeds routine inspections.

Key Features

• Bright indicator: The vivid green pressure pad and indicator arm improve visibility so readings are easy to confirm under vehicle lighting.
• Wide calibration range: Calibrated to measure tension from 100 to 320 lb. (50 to 150 kg.) so it covers common V-ribbed belt requirements across many applications.
• Multi-rib compatibility: Able to measure belts up to eight ribs in width, making it useful for a variety of belt profiles found on cars and trucks.
• Fast checks: The simple mechanical design lets a technician take repeatable readings in seconds during routine maintenance or diagnostics.
• Vehicle coverage: Designed for passenger cars, light trucks, heavy trucks and buses, which helps shop fleets standardize belt tension checks.

Who It's For

The Gates Krikit gauge is aimed at automotive technicians, fleet maintenance shops and experienced home mechanics who perform belt inspections and want consistent, measurable tension values instead of guesswork. Its calibration and rib-width range make it suitable for most accessory belt drives found in professional settings.

Those who should look elsewhere include users who need a tool for timing belts, as this gauge is not intended for timing belt measurement, or people who require electronic logging and storage of readings since this is a simple mechanical indicator without digital output.

Pros & Cons

Pros

• Easy to read bright green pressure pad and indicator arm for quick visual confirmation.
• Calibration spans 100 to 320 lb. (50 to 150 kg.), covering common accessory belt tensions.
• Can measure belts up to eight ribs wide, useful for a wide range of vehicles.
• Simple mechanical operation that is durable and requires no batteries.

Cons

• Not suitable for timing belts, which limits use for some engine service tasks.
• Provides manual readings only, so it lacks digital logging or connected features.

Specifications

Brand	Gates
Model	Krikit II V-Ribbed Belt Tension Gauge
Calibration range	100 to 320 lb. (50 to 150 kg.)
Maximum belt ribs	Up to eight ribs in width
Intended use	V-ribbed / accessory belts on cars, light and heavy trucks, buses
Timing belt use	Not for use on timing belts

Our Verdict

The Gates Krikit V-Ribbed Belt Tension Gauge is a practical, value-oriented tool for technicians and fleet mechanics who need quick, repeatable tension checks for accessory belts. It is easy to use, covers a useful tension range and handles multi-rib belts, making it a worthwhile addition to shop toolkits where timing-belt measurement is not required.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can this gauge be used on timing belts?
No, the Gates Krikit gauge is not intended for timing belts and should only be used on V-ribbed accessory belts.

What tension range does it measure?
It is calibrated to measure belt tension from 100 to 320 lb. (50 to 150 kg.).

How wide a belt can it handle?
The gauge can measure belts up to eight ribs in width, covering most common V-ribbed profiles.