2018 Ford F-250 Super Duty Serpentine Belt Guide

Quick Answer

• Belt Length & Rib Count: Approximately 106.5 inches, 6-rib (for 6.2L V8 gasoline engine)
• OEM Belt PN: HC3Z-8620-A (for 6.2L V8 gasoline engine)
• Aftermarket Cross-references:
  • Gates: K061065
  • Dayco: 5061065
  • Continental Elite: 4061065
• Auto-Tensioner PN: HC3Z-6B209-C (for 6.2L V8 gasoline engine)
• Idler Pulley PN: GC3Z-6C348-A (for 6.2L V8 gasoline engine)

(Note: These part numbers are for the 6.2L V8 gasoline engine. The 6.7L Power Stroke diesel engine uses different components. Always verify part numbers with your VIN for exact fitment.)

Belt Routing

The serpentine belt on your 2018 Ford F-250 Super Duty (6.2L V8) winds its way around several crucial engine accessories. Before attempting any removal, always take a clear photograph of the existing belt routing as a reference. This will be invaluable during reinstallation.

Here's a typical routing path for the 6.2L V8 engine:

1. Starting from the crankshaft pulley (the largest pulley at the bottom, driven directly by the engine).
2. The belt then goes up to the A/C compressor pulley.
3. From the A/C compressor, it routes to an idler pulley (a smooth, non-driven pulley).
4. It then wraps around the alternator pulley.
5. Next, it travels to the power steering pump pulley.
6. The belt continues to the water pump pulley.
7. Finally, it passes under or over the automatic tensioner pulley, which maintains proper belt tension, before returning to the crankshaft pulley.

How to Replace the Serpentine Belt

Replacing the serpentine belt on your 2018 Ford F-250 Super Duty is a task that can be performed with some mechanical aptitude. Always ensure the engine is cool before starting. Safety first: disconnect the negative battery terminal.

1. Locate the Automatic Tensioner: The tensioner typically has a square hole or a bolt head designed for a serpentine belt tool or a 3/8-inch (or sometimes 1/2-inch) breaker bar/ratchet.
2. Relieve Tension: Insert the appropriate tool into the tensioner and rotate it (usually counter-clockwise) to relieve the tension on the belt. This will allow you to remove the belt from one of the smooth idler pulleys.
3. Remove the Old Belt: Once tension is relieved, carefully slide the old belt off the pulleys. Pay close attention to the routing one last time, especially if your photo isn't clear.
4. Install the New Belt: Following your photograph and the routing description above, begin to thread the new belt around all the pulleys, leaving one pulley (usually an idler or the smooth portion of one of the driven accessories) for last where you can easily slip the belt on.
5. Re-tension and Final Check: Once the belt is mostly in place, use your serpentine belt tool or breaker bar to relieve the tensioner again and slip the belt over the final pulley. Slowly release the tensioner to apply tension to the new belt. Double-check that the belt is seated correctly in all the grooves of all the pulleys.
6. Reconnect Battery and Test: Reconnect the negative battery terminal and start the engine. Listen for any squealing or unusual noises and observe the belt for proper tracking.

Replacement Interval

Ford typically recommends inspecting the serpentine belt at every scheduled service interval, often every 15,000 to 30,000 miles, and replacing it as needed or at specific mileage milestones, which can range from 60,000 to 100,000 miles, depending on driving conditions and manufacturer recommendations. However, it's crucial to inspect it regularly for wear and tear, regardless of mileage.

Signs of a Failing Belt or Tensioner

A failing serpentine belt or tensioner can lead to a breakdown, as it drives essential accessories. Be alert for these signs:

• Squealing or Chirping Noises: This is the most common sign. It can indicate a worn or glazed belt, improper tension (often due to a failing tensioner), or a misaligned pulley.
• Cracks, Fraying, or Glazing on the Belt: Visually inspect the belt. Deep cracks, missing chunks, fraying edges, or a shiny, glazed appearance on the ribbed side all suggest the belt is past its prime.
• Loss of Power to Accessories: If your power steering suddenly becomes heavy, the A/C stops blowing cold, or the battery light illuminates (indicating the alternator isn't charging), it could be due to a slipping or broken serpentine belt.
• Wobbling Tensioner Pulley: The automatic tensioner should hold the belt firmly. If the tensioner pulley appears to be wobbling excessively while the engine is running, its internal spring or bearing may be failing.
• Loose Belt: A loose belt can slip, causing accessory performance issues and squealing. This is often a sign of a failing tensioner.
• Grinding or Growling from Pulleys: This can indicate a failing bearing within an idler pulley, the tensioner pulley, or one of the accessory pulleys (alternator, power steering pump, etc.).

Find a trusted shop on Repairius.