Serpintine belt 06 V6

[Bob A]

I'm getting ready to change my belt on my V6 and was looking at the different brand belts out there. One thing that I noticed was the huge price difference between the OEM belt and the others. Now I realize that OEM is always more money, but with a list price of about $85 and a selling price at a place that discounts you can get it for about $66 bucks. All the other manufacturers, Gates, Dayco, AC Delco get about $26 to $30 for their belts. Seems to me that this is a real big price difference. Anyone compare the OEM belt to an aftermarket? If you changed your belt, what did you use? I saw in another thread some good comments on the Goodyear belts...I never used them so I can't comment. Always used Gates here and they always seemed to be good.

Bob

 

[jharris2]

I put a Napa belt on mine about a year ago because it was all I could get at the time. Seems to be fine.

Agree with you -- have used Gates for years without problem. No experience with the other manufacturers you mentioned.

 

[JP4RNR]

I have heard great things about the Goodyear Gatorbacks.

 

[zoomie66]

Serpentine belt change for V-6

I've got a V-6 2003 4Runner which is coming up on 60,000 miles. I changed the air filter and plugs last weekend, and when I return from a trip this weekend I plan to change the fluids in the transfer case and differentials and change the coolant as well. While I'm at it I plan to change the serpentine/drive accessory belt as "preventive maintenance."
For those of you who have already changed this serpentine belt, which tensioners or pulleys did you loosen to remove the old belt and install the new one? I don't have the factory manual but I do have a diagram of how the belt is supposed to be installed; I just don't know which tensioner(s) or accessory should be loosened to do the job.
Your assistance will be appreciated!

 

[jharris2]

See the diagram in this thread.