well. thanks very much for chiming in everyone, i appreciate all the ideas. i had heard that baltimore belting was good. i need to try just aligning the countershaft assembly better and seeing if that helps. that clacking of the belt really doesnt bother me much honestly. i did spend about 30 on this belt so i figure i should at least try a little harder to get it working right before spending anything else. i do have one of those link belts, but had it set up on the bandsaw, should maybe try that thing on the lathe and see how it works flipped over on the flat side of the belt.