Lets Talk V-Belts!

[HammerDown]

So, the other day I replaced my PS V-Belt. It was a Dayco Gold 'top cog' that was many years old and just tired.
Replaced it with a $20.00 Napa (Gates) belt with the teeth/lugs on the inner V-part of the belt...son of a b*tch if it isn't squealing like a pig, and I adjusted (snugged it) twice!
Thinking about going back to a Dayco V-belt that doesn't have the teeth/lugs on the inside (V-side)...your thoughts?

 

[IDIoit]

serpentine system. done.

 

[riotwarrior]

Sounds like not got good purchase on pulleys...top cog has more V material than notched V so ya probably try a real dayco

 

[FORDF250HDXLT]

lets talk v-belts? ok.v-belts are outdated cus they sucked.discussion over lol.
(yes,the '68 429 thunderjet in the bird will be getting the serp setup w/ 3g alt swap.i payed my dues with v-belts years ago)

 

[icanfixall]

You might try some sand paper on the pulleys. Say some 200 wet n dry. See if that changes anything.

 

[HammerDown]

You might try some sand paper on the pulleys. Say some 200 wet n dry. See if that changes anything.

I just may, as I hate to eat a $20 new belt and of course Napa won't take it back.
First time I ever bought a belt with notches on the inside, never again.

 

[F350camper]

I doubt this is your issue, but make sure the parts guy at napa gave you the right belt. Not all v-belts have the same V. I tried to run one that turned out to be the wrong belt where the V was too steep. It squealed like you mention. Just worth a look is all.

 

[HammerDown]

I doubt this is your issue, but make sure the parts guy at napa gave you the right belt. Not all v-belts have the same V. I tried to run one that turned out to be the wrong belt where the V was too steep. It squealed like you mention. Just worth a look is all.

Good point as we used the number off my prior Dayco Top Cog...I'll double check the part #

 

[typ4]

The only Napa belts that fit right are the HD truck ones that have a green back. The others suck.
I'm not a serp fan, if one v belt is all I have left, I still get home, oh hey it has never happened.

 

[Waystro]

I got the HD as Russ said for my 86 I liked them and will be getting more when the time comes.
I really like the Goodyear GatorBacks.
I personally don't like the Serp Setup I prefer the V Belts all in a matter of opinion tho.

 

[dunk]

I also prefer V belts. Serpentine does have advantages for high loads through. Single or even dual V has limits for things like very high amp alternators. Good quality belts (Dayco Top Cog, Gates green or whatever their higher end ones, PleasureCraft Marine) have never given me any trouble so far as slipping or early wear/failure.

 

[Hydro-idi]

Got the Goodyear gators on my truck. No probs at all. I think if they are not too tight or loose, they should last a looong time. I prefer serpentine setups but haven't had any problems with the v-belts so I'll stick with em.

 

[Diesile]

I prefer stuff that works. V belts weren't broken and will be my choice long after the idler pulleys lock up, the
tensioner gets hissy or the resulting loose serp. wraps the crank and yanks an accessory.......

 

[Knuckledragger]

You don't say if the adjustment was used up. Even the right number belt can have up to 1/2 inch more or less (I have had to match belts for my air compressor) material. The grooves should actually make it run quieter and last longer. There is also a can of spray you can buy (belt dressing) to get rid of the squeal, and lastly, the squeal may be a different belt than the one you replaced.

 

[laserjock]

the squeal may be a different belt than the one you replaced.

Boy did I learn this the hard way. After changing a power steering pump because I was convinced it was locking up causing the squeal, I found out I was wrong. It was the alternator belt.