To remove the belt or not remove the belt that is the question

I bought my first belt drive turntable 37 years ago. I have never removed the belt when not in use (except if I was moving). I replace a belt every several years and gave never been the worse for it.

Jameswei's got a good point. I imagine you're doing more harm than good by frequently stretching the belt to remove it from the pulley.

Too much handling is probably not good for the belt. Best to leave it on unless you know you won't be using the turntable for a long (long) time.

I try to take good care of my stuff but never felt the need to go that far. I don't think VPI is going away anytime soon, when you need a replacement belt they'll be there. Belts left on the turntable 24/7 last years in my experience. I suppose a case could be made regarding concern for the miniscule amount of pressure the belt applies in side force to the bearings, but those are pretty robust.