Serpentine belt replacement

Tiny
BIGSISSY1977
  • MEMBER
  • 2013 FORD EXPLORER
  • 3.5L
  • 6 CYL
  • 2WD
  • AUTOMATIC
  • 160,000 MILES
Can you tell me what size belt to get that doesn't include A/C compressor?
Friday, October 18th, 2019 AT 8:27 PM

9 Replies

Tiny
JACOBANDNICKOLAS
  • MECHANIC
  • 109,885 POSTS
Welcome to 2CarPros.

You will need to measure around the pulleys to get a length. However, when you remove the compressor as part of the routing, it changes the way the belt is designed to make contact on at least two other pulleys.

What I suggest is to get an AC bypass pulley. They are not expensive (about the cost of a new belt), and then remove the compressor and install the bypass pulley. It takes the place of the compressor and allows the original belt routing to be used.

I attached a pic of what I am referring to. Let me know if this helps or if you have other questions.

Joe
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Friday, October 18th, 2019 AT 9:42 PM
Tiny
BIGSISSY1977
  • MEMBER
  • 5 POSTS
I cannot find a bypass pulley for my Explorer. I have a 2013 Ford Explorer xlt 2wd 3.5L. Any suggestions?
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Friday, October 18th, 2019 AT 9:44 PM
Tiny
JACOBANDNICKOLAS
  • MECHANIC
  • 109,885 POSTS
Welcome back:

I just looked too and was surprised to see one isn't offered. The vehicle must still be too new. What is actually happening with the compressor? Is it the clutch that failed? Is it locked up?

Joe
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Saturday, October 19th, 2019 AT 4:26 PM
Tiny
BIGSISSY1977
  • MEMBER
  • 5 POSTS
It is locked up completely. I cannot afford to replace right now. My truck is my only transportation and I am a disabled military widow. I have no idea what to do!
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Saturday, October 19th, 2019 AT 4:32 PM
Tiny
JACOBANDNICKOLAS
  • MECHANIC
  • 109,885 POSTS
Welcome back:
I attached a picture below. Is that the set up on your vehicle? If it is, take a nylon type tape measure and measure where I highlighted. I need you to pay attention to clearance. Make sure if the belt runs past the AC compressor that nothing will touch.

I highlighted the section to measure. Note that I bypassed the tensioner. We will add an inch to the overall length so the tensioner, when applied, will not be too loose or tight.

Please understand, this isn't something I would normally suggest, but lets give it a try. Also, the idea of measurement is going to be a hit and miss. We may have to get a belt, try it and then return it for one that is shorter or longer. There are no specifications for just running the alternator, and I hope it works.

Also, count the number of ribs on the inside portion of the belt. You will need to tell them at the parts store how many there are and how long the belt needs to be.

Again, my biggest concerns are getting it tight enough and making sure there is clearance to bypass the AC compressor.

Let me know.

Joe
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Saturday, October 19th, 2019 AT 5:12 PM
Tiny
BIGSISSY1977
  • MEMBER
  • 5 POSTS
#5 is the AC compressor right? I tried that this morning and I don't think I can do it because I can't even reach the pulleys! But yes that's my setup and thank you so much for the diagram.
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Saturday, October 19th, 2019 AT 5:18 PM
Tiny
JACOBANDNICKOLAS
  • MECHANIC
  • 109,885 POSTS
You are correct. Number 5 is the compressor. Most likely, you will need to reach it from under the vehicle. And you are very welcome for the diagram. Please feel free to let me know if you need anything. I'll be here. Worst case, it may take until the next day for my reply, but I make sure to review everything at least once a day.

Let me know if I can help and take care of yourself.

Joe
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Saturday, October 19th, 2019 AT 6:22 PM
Tiny
BIGSISSY1977
  • MEMBER
  • 5 POSTS
Thanks! I will keep you in my contacts. You have been an enormous life saver!
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Saturday, October 19th, 2019 AT 6:35 PM
Tiny
JACOBANDNICKOLAS
  • MECHANIC
  • 109,885 POSTS
Happy to help.
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Saturday, October 19th, 2019 AT 7:02 PM

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