alianza

Sometimes the fan belt squeals after backing out of my drive when I put it in drive. It quits squealing if I turn off the a/c. After I drive a block or so I can turn on the a/c without getting the squeal. I purchased my 2001 4 years ago and don't think the serpentine belt has ever been replaced. It has 92k miles so figure it needs replaced. I'd really like to save $$'s by not having a shop do this. Is it difficult to change the belt and set the correct tension? I read a prior post about the bolts attaching the power steering pump used to tension the belt. Do I need any special tools to set the tension? My mechanical "expertise" is limited to auto shop in high school and I used to tune my car back when they had points. Now I only change oil/filter, air filter, wiper blades, etc. I'd appreciate any expert advice and any recommendations on brands...Gates, Goodyear, or others? Thanks

tkdtim

I heard gatorback was a good one. I picked one up last week cause I was squeeling. I haven't changed it yet, but I hear that its not that bad other than the adjustment being on the power steering bracket.

quadracer0387

napa has great belts also

Snowcats95

I put a Gatorback belt in when I tuned up my xj. No squeaks or squeals; very quiet.

alianza

Thanks for the info. I went with the Gatorback as it was $20 less than the top line Gates. It was a fairly easy installation and squeaks are gone.

98 JeepJeep

you couldnt tighten the old one?

alianza

It has 92k miles and was showing cracks on the inside so thought better to replace it. Is there any recommendation on how often or how many miles it should be replaced?

motorheadmoe

my 97 does the same thing i think it might be the a/c compressor clutch assembly

CRoading

When the fan belt squeals again then its a good indication that it is needed to be replaced....

dangerousdavid

i have a gatorback in mine and its awesome