Serpentine belt replacement?

1996 CHEVROLET CAMARO
432,000 MILES • 3.8L • 6 CYL • AUTOMATIC
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STEVE VOSBURG
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  • 1 POST
I'm having to replace my alternator because the pulley has worn out due to the replaced serpentine belt is about 2" too short compared to the original causing too much tension on the pulleys. This is about the 4th belt I've replaced on this short size. I've checked with the car parts store where I bought it, and they just tell me that it's the correct belt.
Can I get a belt that's the same width but just a little longer?
Jan 10, 2023 at 9:31 PM
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STRAILER
  • ASE Certified Mechanic
  • 54,832 POSTS
  • ASE Certified Mechanic
Yep, this is because the alternator pulley is larger than the original.

Here is a video that shows the job being done:

https://youtu.be/Kzy3wrba7qk

Just tell the parts store you need the next size large belt due to the pulley size change. Let us know what happens and please upload pictures or videos of the problem.




Jan 11, 2023 at 11:11 AM
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