Noticed that my engine was sqeeling a bit and I have some play in the tensioner(forward and back)

would that be the culprit? or is this normal, i mean its not a heck of alot, at most 1/4" both ways.
I have to drive 300km in 7 days and I really dont wanna get stranded

 

Belt squeal is probably an old belt... When was the last time the belt was replaced? I have had good luck with the Goodyear Gatorback belt on the 4.3L & 5.7L engines which typically have belt squeal problems.

 

not sure when the last time it was replaced....but Ive been driving on the same one for almost 3 years now......

when I bought it there was a belt in the back, but how do I know its the right one? its like 3 1/2 feet long.....made by "Dayco poly cog" Ill try google and see what i come up with.....

Wait, what about the tensioner, it has movement forward and backward in respect to the truck....can this be tightend or adjusted?

edit-found specs if it helps.... Price: List Price: $21.91
Your Price: $19.72
Order may qualify for FREE Shipping- Details Our Part Number: U29 5060960
Belt 6 Rib 27/32"Wide X 96"Long Manufacturer Number: Dayco Products 5060960 Availability: Stocking Item - Usually ships same day Package Quantity: 1 Cross Reference: 916 D11026837, 550 12576455, 550 12564763, 550 10243938, 490 XF2E8620CC
Description: This is the “cogged� version of the revolutionary multi-ribbed belt first developed by Dayco for the 1979 Ford® Mustang®. The multiple-rib design provides better belt-to-pulley contact for less slippage, so it lasts longer than conventional V-belts. “Multiple ribs� also eliminates the need for “matching�, and allows “controlled slippage� in shock overload situations, such as when the AC compressor kicks in.
Dayco’s superior manufacturing technology uses a rubber-impregnated fabric backing that maximizes load-carrying capability and minimizes the noise that is often associated with the competition’s rubber-backed belts. Poly Cog belts meet or exceed SAE J1459 and J1596 specifications. [ul]Dayco Poly Cog belt part numbers identify the size and length of the belt. Here is an example; 5060560[*]5 = Dayco Poly Cog Belt[*]06 = Number of Ribs[*]0560 = 56.0 Effective Length[/ul]

 

I would recommend installing a new one. About 3.5 ft long sounds about right. But rubber gets old so going with a Brand NEW BELT should last 5 years or so. In the long run I find that the best. Then I keep the old one for a spare in case I'm in the middle of nowhere and need a belt to get in.

 

this belt i have is brand new...still in the package