Accurate belt routing on a 5.7L Chevy 350 without AC is critical to prevent component failure, excessive belt wear, and costly damage. Follow these key points:
Critical Belt Routing Components (Non-AC)
- Crankshaft Pulley: Drive source. Must engage sufficient belt wrap.
- Water Pump Pulley: Standard rotation (clockwise when viewed front-on). Misrouting reverses coolant flow.
- Alternator Pulley: Main driven accessory. Requires correct tension.
- Power Steering Pump Pulley: Driven off the same run as alternator typically.
- Tensioner Assembly (Serpentine): Maintains precise tension; inspect spring/bearing condition.
Common Installation Mistakes & Prevention
- Incorrect Pulley Wrap: Ensure the belt follows the exact groove path on each pulley. Misalignment shreds belts.
- Reversed Water Pump Rotation: Verify pulley grooves match diagram orientation. Anti-clockwise pump rotation causes immediate overheating.
- Tensioner Errors: Never pry the tensioner beyond its stop mark. Use a proper wrench on the hex. Replace if binding.
- Insufficient Alternator Wrap: Confirm the belt contacts at least 180 degrees of the alternator pulley. Less causes slippage.
- Ignoring Pulley Condition: Inspect for rust, chipped ribs, wobble, or bearing noise. Damaged pulleys ruin belts.
- Wrong Belt Length: Use ONLY the OEM specified part number or verified equivalent (e.g., 6-rib x [specific length]).
Essential Installation Steps
- Rotate the tensioner fully clockwise (serpentine) to slacken belt.
- Route the belt starting at the crankshaft pulley, following the correct diagram path meticulously.
- Ensure the belt is fully seated in every pulley groove before releasing the tensioner.
- After tensioner release, visually and manually confirm the belt is centered and seated on all pulleys.
- Check tensioner indicator mark (if equipped) is within specified range. Manual tensioners require correct deflection (typically 1/2" midpoint push on longest span).
- Run engine briefly (30 sec), shut off, and re-check tension and seating. Retighten if necessary.
Final Checks & Warnings
- Do Not Start Engine: Until belt routing is triple-verified against a reliable diagram. Reversal risks pump destruction.
- Listen for chirping/whining noises indicating misalignment or slippage upon start-up.
- Monitor temperature gauge immediately after installation for potential pump flow reversal.
- Reference ONLY a diagram specific to your year, engine size, and accessory configuration (no AC).