Replace serpentine belt at what mileage?
 

I'm fast approaching 60K miles on my 2000 Ranger XLT, 3.0 flex and wondering if anyone has seen a recommended change interval on the serpentine?

For those who have had their serpentine's shred or break on them what was the time/mileage?

Thanks,

I changed my serentine belt at about 50K miles. This is on a 1999 3.0L FFV. It was starting to get some surface cracks, and I didn't want to take any chances with it.

I would change it. Cheap insurance!

Service interval on quality serpentines is 50K. Be careful because there are cheap ones out there that will fail between 10K to 20K.

Per FoMoCo, if you get cracks in lands on the rubber side of the belt, this is normal. But, if you get chunks missing, replace the belt. Some will tell you that cracks are a sign to replace the belt. Not necessarily true.
tom

tom is right. if you get cracks on the other side of the belt, not where the v-grooves are, i would change the belt as well. My factory one lasted all the way to 85K as the previous owner never changed it. I would change it though as it's cheap insurance and if that thing fails...u'll be on the side of the road cursing.

Yep it just got added to the 60K mile maintenance list!

Thanks Guys

I just replaced mine. The original was a solid looking belt with a smooth outer surface (but it was starting to crack underneath). The new one is broken up into several bands and looks more like a snow tire, on both sides.

How can you tell the good from the bad?

By the time you can actually visually tell that a belt is shot, then it's already been bad for several thousand miles. They should be replaced every 60K. This is particularly true for the newer "gator" and "poly cog" designs which are fine belts but they make it harder to discern cracks and splits, etc. Sure they can last longer, but as elmo said, why run the risk of being stranded?

im gonna change mine (69k on a 96)

just replaced mine. it's the second belt for my truck at 120,000 miles. the motorcraft belt was squeeling like a banshee!!! so I guess the 60k is about right huh.

Just a tip: When replacing your belt put your old one behind or under your seat. You never know.....................

-Matt :-tap