Does anyone actually use a Belt Tension Gauge?

My work held a V-belt seminar put on by Goodyear, and they had all kids of info on belt tension, etc. They handed out belt tension gauges to us, and it's a simple device, kind of a spring-loaded thing with an o-ring to mark the amount of belt deflection. Funny thing is, I've always done the "1/4-turn" method. That is, get the belt tight, and if you can twist it more than 1/4 turn, it's either too loose or worn out. Anyway, I adjusted my belts that way, then checked it with my fancy Goodyear tool and found out that the 1/4-turn method is very close to perfect. There is a ton of stuff out there for perfect belt tension, from stick-on, single-use tape to expensive tools like the one you pictured.

Unless you're doing it professionally, you don't need a hard-core tool. This is more affordable.

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Amazon.com: Gates 91132 Belt Tension Tester: Automotive

i have never used a belt tension gauge. i use the belt deflection method. older V belts should deflect about 1/2" when properly installed, and serpentine belts slightly less. never had any issues using this method.

I've also never used a gauge. Never had issues from it. A belt tensioning gauge is for the mechanic who has everything. and wants more