2014 Ford F-150 Serpentine Belt Guide

Quick Answer

• Belt Length and Rib Count: Varies by engine. The 5.0L V8, for example, typically uses a belt approximately 99.0 inches long with a 6-rib design.
• OEM Belt Part Number: For the 5.0L V8, a common OEM part number is BL3Z-8620-A.
• Aftermarket Cross-References: Gates K060990, Dayco 5060990, Continental 4060990.
• Automatic Tensioner Part Number: Ford part number BL3Z-6B209-B.
• Idler Pulley Part Number: Ford part number YS-251.

Belt Routing

Before you remove the old belt, always take a clear photograph of the belt's path for reference. The routing can be complex, and a photo is the most reliable way to ensure the new belt is installed correctly. For the 2014 F-150 with the 5.0L V8 engine, the belt is routed as follows:

1. Starting from the crankshaft pulley at the bottom center of the engine.
2. The belt travels up and to the right, wrapping around the A/C compressor.
3. From the A/C compressor, it goes straight up to an idler pulley.
4. Next, it moves to the left, around the alternator.
5. The belt then goes down and around the power steering pump pulley.
6. From there, it goes across to the water pump pulley.
7. Finally, it routes up and around the auto-tensioner pulley before returning to the crankshaft pulley.

How to Replace the Serpentine Belt

Replacing the serpentine belt is a manageable task for a DIYer with the right tool. You will need a serpentine belt tool, which is a long, thin breaker bar with various socket and crowfoot attachments. A standard 3/8" drive breaker bar can also work in many cases.

1. Locate the Auto-Tensioner: The automatic tensioner is a spring-loaded pulley designed to keep the belt tight. On the 5.0L V8, you'll see a square 3/8" drive hole in the body of the tensioner pulley arm.
2. Release Tension: Insert the 3/8" square drive of your serpentine belt tool or breaker bar into the hole on the tensioner. Rotate the tensioner arm to release the tension on the belt. This will require some force.
3. Remove the Old Belt: While holding the tensioner, slip the old belt off one of the smooth, non-grooved pulleys, like the idler or water pump pulley. Then, carefully release the tensioner and remove the old belt completely.
4. Install the New Belt: Using your photograph or the diagram for reference, route the new belt around all the pulleys, saving a smooth pulley for last. Double-check that the ribs of the belt are correctly seated in the grooves of each ribbed pulley.
5. Apply Tension: Once the belt is routed correctly, use your tool to move the tensioner again, and slide the belt over the final pulley. Slowly release the tensioner, ensuring the belt stays seated on all pulleys. The tensioner will automatically apply the correct amount of pressure.
6. Final Check: Do a final visual inspection of the entire belt path to confirm it is routed correctly and seated properly in all the pulley grooves. Start the engine and watch the belt for a few moments to ensure it is tracking straight and running smoothly.

Replacement Interval

Ford recommends inspecting the serpentine belt at regular service intervals. While there isn't a strict replacement mileage, it's generally a good practice to replace it every 60,000 to 100,000 miles, or as soon as it shows signs of wear.

Signs of a Failing Belt or Tensioner

A failing serpentine belt or tensioner will give you several warning signs. Ignoring them can lead to a breakdown, as the belt powers critical components like the alternator, water pump, and power steering pump.

• Squealing or Chirping Noises: This is the most common sign, often caused by a worn, glazed, or contaminated belt. The noise may be more noticeable on cold starts or during acceleration.
• Visible Wear: Inspect the belt for cracks, fraying, glazing (shiny surface), or missing ribs. Any visible damage means the belt needs immediate replacement.
• Tensioner Noise: A grinding or rattling noise coming from the tensioner area indicates a failing bearing in the tensioner pulley.
• "Bouncing" Tensioner Pulley: Watch the tensioner pulley with the engine running. If it is vibrating or bouncing excessively, the internal spring mechanism is likely worn out, and the tensioner assembly should be replaced.
• Accessory Problems: If your battery isn't charging properly (dimming lights), the engine is overheating, or you have intermittent loss of power steering, a slipping or broken belt could be the cause.

If you're not comfortable performing this service yourself, Repairius can help.

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