Belt has migrated off-center and is rubbing against the frame or triggering a tracking sensor. Can cause belt damage if not corrected.
medium
conveyor
conveyor
belt
tracking
idler
alignment
Probable Causes (ranked)
- Belt splice not square — misaligned splice causes belt to walk
- Conveyor frame not level — belt drifts to low side
- Idler rollers not square to frame — crowned rollers worn flat
- Material buildup on rollers — causes diameter difference that steers belt
- Loading point off-center — material weight pulls belt to one side
- Take-up tension uneven — one side tighter than other
Fix Steps
-
1
Observe which direction belt tracks — adjust steering idler opposite to drift direction
-
2
Clean all rollers, especially carry-side idlers — remove built-up material
-
3
Check frame level with torpedo level — shim if needed
-
4
Inspect belt splice — should be perpendicular to belt travel direction
-
5
Adjust return idlers first (tail end), then carry-side idlers, working toward head
-
6
Verify loading point is centered on belt — adjust chute or skirtboard
-
7
Re-tension take-up evenly — equal snug on both sides
-
8
If belt is permanently stretched on one side, belt needs replacement
Field Trick
Adjust ONE idler at a time, 1/4 turn. Wait for the belt to make 3 full revolutions before adjusting again. Overadjusting is the #1 tracking mistake.
Suggested Replacement Parts
Parts matched to fault category: Conveyor Belt
Intralox Series 400 Flat Top Belt (per ft)
P/N: S400-FT-12
12 inch wide, acetal flat top, food-grade option available
Prices are estimates. Verify part numbers match your equipment before ordering.
Need a deeper diagnosis with photo analysis and AI-powered troubleshooting?
Run Full Diagnosis
All Fault Codes
