2020 Ford Explorer Serpentine Belt Routing, Length & Part Numbers

As an ASE-certified master technician, I frequently service the redesigned sixth-generation Ford Explorer. For the 2020 model year, the Explorer features a longitudinal engine layout, primarily equipped with either the 2.3L EcoBoost inline-4 or the 3.0L EcoBoost V6.

Replacing the serpentine belt (drive belt) is an essential maintenance task that keeps your alternator, water pump, and air conditioning running smoothly. Below, you will find the specifications, part numbers, and a step-by-step routing guide specifically tailored for the popular 2.3L EcoBoost engine.

Quick answer: 2020 Ford Explorer 2.3L Belt Specifications

Please note: Always verify fitment with your parts supplier using your VIN, as options can slightly alter belt lengths.

• Rib Count: 6-rib
• Belt Length: 42.5 inches (approximate)
• OEM Ford Belt Part Number: JB5Z-8620-B (Motorcraft JK6-1049)
• Gates Cross-Reference: Gates K060425
• Dayco Cross-Reference: Dayco 5060425
• Continental Cross-Reference: Continental Elite 4060425
• Auto-Tensioner Assembly PN: JB5Z-6B209-A
• Idler Pulley PN: GB5Z-8678-A

Belt Routing (2.3L EcoBoost)

Pro Tip: Before you remove the old serpentine belt, take a clear photo of the routing with your smartphone. It is the best reference you can have if you get confused during reinstallation.

Because the 2020 Ford Explorer uses Electric Power-Assisted Steering (EPAS), you will not find a power steering pump on the accessory drive. Here is the text-based routing path for the primary drive belt:

1. Start by looping the ribbed side of the belt around the bottom of the Crankshaft Pulley (harmonic balancer).
2. Route the belt straight up and over the ribbed pulley of the Alternator.
3. Bring the belt down and wrap the smooth back side of the belt under the Smooth Idler Pulley.
4. Pull the belt up and around the ribbed pulley of the Water Pump.
5. Route the belt down around the ribbed pulley of the A/C Compressor.
6. Finally, bring the smooth back side of the belt over the Automatic Belt Tensioner pulley to complete the loop.

How to replace the serpentine belt

Replacing the belt on the 2.3L Explorer is straightforward, but space can be tight between the engine and the radiator cooling fans.

1. Gather your tools: You will need a standard 3/8-inch drive breaker bar or a dedicated serpentine belt tool.
2. Relieve tension: Locate the automatic belt tensioner on the front of the engine. Insert the 3/8-inch drive of your breaker bar into the square slot on the tensioner arm. Rotate the tensioner counter-clockwise (away from the belt) to relieve tension.
3. Remove the belt: Slide the old belt off the easiest accessible pulley (usually the idler or alternator) while holding the tensioner open. Carefully release the tensioner.
4. Route the new belt: Route your new Gates, Dayco, or OEM Motorcraft belt according to the path described above, leaving the tensioner pulley for last.
5. Install: Rotate the tensioner open again, slip the belt over the tensioner pulley, and slowly release the tensioner so it applies firm pressure to the belt.
6. Verify: Check every pulley to ensure the ribs of the belt are seated perfectly within the grooves.

Replacement interval

Ford's official maintenance schedule generally recommends inspecting accessory drive belts every 10,000 miles and replacing them around the 100,000-mile mark. However, as a master tech, I recommend replacing the belt and inspecting the tensioner every 60,000 to 75,000 miles. Modern EPDM belts don't crack the way old neoprene belts did; instead, the rubber ribs wear down like a tire tread.

Signs of a failing belt or tensioner

Don't wait for a complete failure to address your accessory drive. Look out for these warning signs:

• Squealing or Chirping: High-pitched noises upon cold startup or hard acceleration usually indicate a stretched belt or weak tensioner spring.
• Visible Wear: Look for missing rib chunks, frayed edges, or a shiny, glazed appearance on the belt's ribbed side.
• Tensioner Bounce: While the engine is idling, watch the automatic tensioner. Excessive bouncing indicates the internal dampener has failed, and the whole assembly should be replaced.
• Accessory Issues: A slipping belt can lead to battery warning lights (low alternator output) or poor A/C performance.

If you aren't comfortable tackling this repair yourself, don't risk being stranded with a snapped belt. Find a trusted shop on Repairius.