What size alternator belt do I need?
Purchase a belt one size smaller than the size you measured. The actual belt will have tension on it, whereas the string doesn’t. For example, if you measured 80 inches, purchase a belt that is 79 1/2 inches.
Are engine belts Universal?
Today, there’s one belt to run them all—well, for the majority of vehicles. It’s called the serpentine belt. Some rides may have an additional belt to run select accessories, but the serpentine does the bulk of the work.
What belts are connected to the alternator?
The serpentine belt is a long rubber belt that transports power to the engine accessories—the alternator, power steering pump, air conditioning compressor and (sometimes) the water pump. You may have heard a serpentine belt referred to as a fan belt or accessory belt.
What size fan belt do I need?
Use a cloth measuring tape (not a steel one) and wrap it around the outside of the belt. You also use a thin string to take this measurement and place it on a steel tape to get the correct length. Next, for “A” Belts (1/2” width) subtract two-inches from the outside measurement to select the correct V-belt.
What do fan belt numbers mean?
These numbers represent the outside length of a fan belt. The number might be 420; this means the outside circumference of the fan belt is 42 inches. A belt with the number “3L420” on it means it is 9.5 millimeters in width and 42 inches in length. This is the information you’ll need when searching for a replacement.
Are alternator belts interchangeable?
We’ll cut straight to the answer to the question we raised in the introduction: no, these belts are not interchangeable. Lastly, the rubber composition, the strength, thickness or temperature resistance may vary from one timing belt to another.
How many types of belts are there?
What are the types of belts? Types of Belts: There are three types of power transmission belts: flat belt, V belt, and synchronous belt.
How do you find the belt number?
Automotive belts start with either 4L (12.5mm wide) or 3L (9.5mm). The number following it is the outside length of the belt in tenths of inches. The inside length of the belt is typically 2″ less for a 4L belt, and 1-1/2″ less for a 3L belt. An example would be 4L460, which would be 46″ long outside, 44″ inside.