Serpintine belt?

[Shadetreeme]

I looked at the serpintine belt and there are no cracks in the smooth top of the belt. On the inner side of the belt I notice alot of little gaps, are those relly cracks or OEM design to make the belt last longer? Also, when do I change the serpintine belt? I am at 132k on miles 02, 3.8 LS

[Shadetreeme]

Originally Posted by Shadetreeme

I looked at the serpintine belt and there are no cracks in the smooth top of the belt. On the inner side of the belt I notice alot of little gaps, are those relly cracks or OEM design to make the belt last longer? Also, when do I change the serpintine belt? I am at 132k on miles 02, 3.8 LS

Had serpentine belt changed, all good now.

['97ventureowner]

132K is a lot of miles for the belt. I've seen 40K as a reccomended service interval. I usually keep an eye on them once they are 3 years old or have over 40K on them. I've replaced mine on my '94 PU at 91K and my Venture (97) at 63K. So it can vary.

[Shadetreeme]

Originally Posted by '97ventureowner

132K is a lot of miles for the belt. I've seen 40K as a reccomended service interval. I usually keep an eye on them once they are 3 years old or have over 40K on them. I've replaced mine on my '94 PU at 91K and my Venture (97) at 63K. So it can vary.

I have already changed the belt. Won't let it happen again.

[f81002]

I've noticed those little "gaps" too. Are they cracks, or the design?

Do you know the average cost of replacing the belt?

['97ventureowner]

Originally Posted by f81002

I've noticed those little "gaps" too. Are they cracks, or the design?

Do you know the average cost of replacing the belt?

I think it depends on the manufacturer of the belt. Some may put them in to help the belt last longer similar to the old "V" belts that had the notches in them to dissipate heat. It gives them a "leg up " on their competitors who don't have them. When my belts got old the ones that has the notches in them were also starting to crack so I think it is both.

[Shadetreeme]

Originally Posted by f81002

I've noticed those little "gaps" too. Are they cracks, or the design?

Do you know the average cost of replacing the belt?

Here in Texas go to O'Reilly Auto Parts, serpentine belt Armor Mark $23. and Pep Boys installation $25. The cheapest I have found.