Changing Belt

[flyboyron]

I have an 09 with the 5.3L V8 with 97,000 miles on it. It is now over 10 years old.

I am wondering if I should change the serpentine belt and then not have to worry about it for another 100K.

What life are you getting on your belts?

Should I buy a factory belt or which brand would be a good belt?

[davester]

If you want to, then I would also suggest changing out the idlers & tensioners as well, as if the bearings in them go, they tend to take out the belt at the same time.

[jagabom (Esquire)]

Then put the old belt under the seat for when the new one blows.

Jim

[txab]

I'd change it. Cheap insurance. Use Gates or Goodyear both excellent belts. AC Delco is a good one too

[CapitalTruck]

Change the idler pulley and put a new tensioner in.  Also, replace the A/C belt.  If you go with the OEM GM A/C belt it comes with a little tool to install it (it's stretch to fit).  You can do all of it easily in a few minutes.  Definitely do it now.

[intheburbs]

I don't mess with the A/C belt until it breaks.  Too much of a PITA.  I can live without A/C.

 

Serpentine replacement is cheap insurance.  Instead of just blindly replacing the tension/idler pulley, check it while the belt is off.  Do they spin tightly, make any noise, or feel crunchy as they spin?  If they feel tight and smooth, leave them alone and put on the new belt and call it done.