Belts have long been sold by themselves but over the years, some manufacturers have begun putting together kits to help tackle frequent noise or other problems that sometimes creep up in certain vehicles. These kits can solve a range of problems and can include parts such as an Alternator Decoupler Pulley. They also can feature all the parts needed for service to the accessory drive.

And kits also can aid technicians in performing more difficult jobs such as when a front end module needs to be pulled forward to access accessory and timing belt systems. Or say an upper radiator hose must be removed to replace the serpentine accessory drive belt, such as on the Ford F Series. Offering these kits to your customer not only helps them do a more complete job and helps keep their customers happy, but also can help them keep vehicles moving through the bays with fewer delays. One very important point to keep in mind with respect to serpentine belts and timing belts made of EPDM is that appearances can be deceiving. Belts made of EPDM do not crack and become brittle as they age like older belts made of synthetic and natural rubbers. So it’s difficult to judge the true condition of a belt by its appearance alone.

To solve that problem some belt suppliers now have special tools for checking wear in the belt grooves.