2018 Chevrolet Tahoe Serpentine Belt: Routing, Replacement, and Part Numbers

Quick Answer

• Belt Length: Approximately 98.0 inches (2490 mm)
• Rib Count: 6-rib
• OEM Belt Part Number: AC Delco 6K980
• Aftermarket Cross-references:
  • Gates K060980
  • Dayco 5060980
  • Continental Elite 4060980
• Auto-Tensioner Part Number: AC Delco 12628009
• Idler Pulley Part Number: AC Delco 12604253

Belt Routing

The 2018 Chevrolet Tahoe, particularly models equipped with the 5.3L or 6.2L V8 engine, utilizes a specific serpentine belt routing path. Before you begin any work, it is highly recommended to take a clear photograph of the existing belt routing as a reference. This will be invaluable during reinstallation.

Starting from the crankshaft pulley (the largest pulley at the bottom central part of the engine):

1. The belt exits the crankshaft pulley and goes up to the air conditioning (A/C) compressor pulley.
2. From the A/C compressor, the belt routes up to the idler pulley, typically located above and slightly to the left of the A/C compressor.
3. After the idler pulley, the belt then travels to the alternator pulley, usually positioned high on the passenger side of the engine.
4. From the alternator, the belt goes down to the power steering pump pulley, generally located below the alternator.
5. The belt then moves to the water pump pulley, directly below the power steering pump and often central on the engine.
6. Finally, the belt routes to the automatic tensioner pulley, which usually sits above the crankshaft and slightly to the driver's side, completing the loop back to the crankshaft.

How to Replace the Serpentine Belt

Replacing the serpentine belt on your 2018 Chevrolet Tahoe is a manageable task for the DIY mechanic. You will need a serpentine belt tool or a 3/8" drive breaker bar.

1. Locate the Automatic Tensioner: Identify the automatic tensioner pulley. It will have a square opening for a 3/8" drive tool or a specific lug for a serpentine belt tool.
2. Relieve Belt Tension: Insert your serpentine belt tool or 3/8" breaker bar into the tensioner and rotate it clockwise (or counter-clockwise, depending on the tensioner design – observe which way it moves to loosen) to relieve the tension on the belt. Hold it in this position.
3. Remove the Old Belt: While holding the tensioner, carefully slip the belt off one of the easier pulleys (like the idler pulley). Once it's off, slowly release the tensioner.
4. Inspect Pulleys: With the belt removed, check all the pulleys for any signs of wear, wobbling, or excessive noise when spun by hand. Replace any faulty pulleys.
5. Route the New Belt: Using your photograph as a guide, route the new serpentine belt around all the pulleys, leaving one pulley (usually the idler or a smooth pulley) for last. Ensure the ribs of the belt are correctly seated in the grooved pulleys and the back of the belt is on the smooth pulleys.
6. Tension and Install: Again, use your serpentine belt tool or breaker bar to release the tensioner. Slip the belt over the final pulley. Slowly release the tensioner, ensuring the belt remains properly seated on all pulleys.
7. Double-Check: Start the engine briefly and listen for any abnormal noises. Turn the engine off and visually inspect the belt to ensure it is correctly aligned and tracking properly on all pulleys.

Replacement Interval

Most manufacturers, including Chevrolet, recommend inspecting the serpentine belt at every oil change and replacing it if signs of wear are present. Generally, a serpentine belt should be replaced every 60,000 to 100,000 miles or every 5-7 years, whichever comes first. However, driving conditions and climate can influence this interval. Always refer to your owner's manual for the most accurate service schedule for your specific vehicle.

Signs of a Failing Belt or Tensioner

A failing serpentine belt or a worn-out tensioner can lead to a host of problems, as these components are critical for powering accessories and maintaining engine function. Be alert for the following signs:

• Squealing or Chirping Noises: This is one of the most common indicators of a worn or misaligned belt, or a failing tensioner or pulley bearing. The noise often gets worse on cold starts or when the accessories (like the A/C) are running.
• Cracks, Fraying, or Glazing on the Belt: Visually inspect the belt for any visible damage. Cracks on the ribbed side, fraying along the edges, or a shiny, glazed appearance on the belt surface indicate it's time for replacement.
• Loss of Power to Accessories: If your power steering feels heavy, the air conditioning isn't blowing cold, or the battery light comes on, it could be due to the belt slipping or breaking, preventing these components from operating correctly.
• Engine Overheating: A broken serpentine belt will stop the water pump from circulating coolant, leading to rapid engine overheating.
• Battery Warning Light: If the alternator isn't spinning due to a broken or slipping belt, the battery won't charge, triggering the battery warning light on your dashboard.
• Wobbling or Misaligned Pulleys: Inspect the pulleys while the engine is off. Any excessive play or wobbling in a pulley, or if a pulley appears out of alignment, can indicate a failing bearing or bracket.
• Tensioner Not Providing Enough Tension: A failing tensioner might not keep adequate tension on the belt, leading to slipping and noise. You may notice the tensioner arm bouncing excessively.

Ignoring these signs can lead to a sudden breakdown, as a broken serpentine belt will leave you stranded. Prompt attention to these issues can prevent more costly repairs.

Find a trusted shop on Repairius.