joe lucia please

[Jeff M.]

welcome back. i am in need of the correct belt length to buy for a big block non air car for the water pump to crank pully without an idler pully. i was thinking it was 31 1/2 or 32 inches in length. can you help.

[Joe L.]

Re: joe lucia please

jeff-----

The original belt was of 15/32" width and 31-7/8" length. It is no longer available from GM, though. Except for reproduction belts, I don't think that it's available from any other manufacturer, either.

Most current GM belts are 7/16" width and can be used with the original pullies. The 7/16" width belt should ride a litle lower in the pullies than the original 15/32" belt. Therefore, a slightly shorter belt would be required. The closest size that GM currently services would be a 31.5" belt of GM #9433716. A 32.0" belt is available under GM #9433717. I'd obtain both (or equivalent length Dayco Gates or Goodyear belts) and use the one which provides the best fit.

For these "captured" type belt drive systems such as the water pump-to-crank pulley application, a very precise belt length is needed. Or, you can add the A/C idler pulley assembly, available in reproduction, and then you would use a longer belt without requirement for a precise belt length. Much easier to install, too.

[Patrick H.]

Re: joe lucia please

What's the matter, Jeff? No sense of humor with our previous responses to the question? I think you need to go unwind by driving your car some more.

See you Sunday!

Patrick