Engine/Transmission (1998.5 - 2002) surpentine belt wear

[sgf]

What kind of life are you getting out of you surpentine belts? The one I replaced yesterday, before the visit from hurricane Arthur, had about 9,000 miles on it. The previous one didn't last that long. They get worn frayed spots on the cab side. I checked the pulleys with a straight edge then had a shop confirm that everything looked good.The truck is a 2001 with a/c and the belt brand is Gates.

 

[JR]

When was the last time you changed your belt tensioner? Another suspect is the harmonic damper. I believe Cummins recommends inspecting the damper every 90k miles but as our trucks age sometimes it's more about the time frame then mileage. Your belt should last a lot longer than that, there is no general rule as everyone uses their trucks differently but lasting 100k miles or 4 or 5 years or more depending on climate and engine hours is not uncommon.
I would take the belt off and physically spin each pulley by hand and feel for any signs of wear or slop. Can't do that with the harmonic damper but there are guidelines for that as well.It is harder to do an inspection with the damper in place but is possible. On the pulley side or the side facing the radiator, there is a bonded rubber ring. It should be flush with the hub. If it is protruding from between the hub and the inertia ring or there are any pieces cracked or missing it is due for replacement.

 

[sgf]

re:

I was certain that belt life was way too short but figured I'd confirm. I don't think I've ever checked the bonded rubber ring you mention. Thanks, I'll take a look at that and maybe look everything over again.

 

[RikDavis]

I would change mine on the 99 every 100K and they still looked good