Thread: Finding the right size fan belts.

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Does anyone have any advice or clues as to make it easy to find the right size fan belts once you have figured out what lenghts you need without going the trial and error route?

If you know the length, and the proper width, just go to a good parts store (not one where the pimple faced kid must know what car year and model to punch in the computer before he can decide whether to take a whiz or not). Belt numbers are coded for those dimensions. If you get good and friendly with them, when it comes time to buy hoses all you'll have to do is bring down your pattern (usually a bent piece of welding rod, or other light wire) and they'll let you search the rack for the right shape molded hose (even if you have to cut one down for length). That way you won't force yourself to use the ribbed tickler redneck hoses.

The easiest way I found to determine a belt size is to find a sacraficial belt that is much longer, with the correct top width and cut it. Put the alternator adjustment, or whatever you are trying to fit a belt to, to it's half way point. Run the cut belt around the pulleys and mate the ends. One end will cross over the other, and put a mark on the spot where the belt is at it's tightest point. If you measure the length you end up with, that's the size you'll need. It sure goes alot quicker doing it compared to typing it.

Thanks for the info. I have the dimensions I need for my belts, now I just have to find them. Most of the part stores around here usually have teenagers working at the counter, and they can't find a box of rags until you tell them the make and model of the vehicle that they will be used on.

Okay Andy, here's more info. First different companies use different numbering systems, that's why I suggested finding a knowledgable counter guy. But at one time most companies followed a "universal" system. For example a 15415 would be a 3/8" wide belt, 41.5" long, a 15420 would be 42" long, etc.

Hope this helps.