2022 Jeep Gladiator Serpentine Belt Guide

Quick Answer

• Engine Option: 3.6L V6

• Belt Length: 2470mm (97.25 inches)

• Rib Count: 6-rib

• OEM Belt Part Number: 68339343AA

• Aftermarket Cross-References:

  • Gates: K060972
  • Dayco: 5060970
  • Continental: 4060972

• Automatic Tensioner Part Number: Mopar 68339341AA

• Idler Pulley Part Number: Mopar 68155921AA

• Engine Option: 3.0L EcoDiesel V6

• Belt Length: 1539mm (60.6 inches)

• Rib Count: 6-rib

• OEM Belt Part Number: 68494541AA

• Aftermarket Cross-References:

  • Gates: K060600
  • Dayco: 5060600

• Automatic Tensioner Part Number: Mopar 68494543AA

• Idler Pulley Part Number: Mopar 68494542AA

Belt Routing

Before you remove the old serpentine belt, it is crucial to understand the correct path it takes around the engine's accessories. We highly recommend taking a clear photograph of the belt's routing from a couple of angles to use as a reference.

3.6L V6 Engine Belt Routing

The serpentine belt winds its way from the main crankshaft pulley through the various accessory pulleys in a specific order. For the 3.6L Pentastar V6, the belt is routed as follows:

1. Starts at the Crankshaft Pulley at the bottom center of the engine.
2. Wraps up and around the Air Conditioning (A/C) Compressor on the lower passenger side.
3. Goes up to the smooth Idler Pulley located just above the A/C compressor.
4. Travels across the engine to the Alternator on the upper driver's side.
5. Comes down and around the Power Steering Pump pulley.
6. Goes across to the Water Pump pulley in the center of the engine block.
7. Finally, loops under the Automatic Tensioner pulley before returning to the crankshaft pulley. The tensioner is what you will move to release and install the belt.

How to Replace the Serpentine Belt

Replacing the serpentine belt on a 2022 Gladiator is a manageable task for a DIYer with the right tools. You will need a serpentine belt tool, which is a long, thin ratchet with various socket and crowfoot attachments. In many cases, a standard 3/8" drive breaker bar will also fit into the square hole on the automatic tensioner.

1. Safety First: Make sure the engine is completely cool.
2. Locate the Tensioner: Find the automatic tensioner pulley (refer to your routing photo). It has a square 3/8" drive hole built into the tensioner body or pulley arm.
3. Release Tension: Insert your serpentine belt tool or breaker bar into the square hole on the tensioner. Rotate the tensioner arm to release the tension on the belt. This can require a bit of force.
4. Remove Old Belt: While holding the tensioner in the released position, carefully slip the old belt off one of the smooth, accessible pulleys like the idler or water pump pulley.
5. Install New Belt: Following your photo and the routing description above, carefully thread the new belt around all the pulleys, saving a smooth, easy-to-reach pulley for last. Double-check that the ribbed side of the belt is properly seated in the grooves of each ribbed pulley.
6. Apply Tension: Once the new belt is correctly routed, slowly release the automatic tensioner to apply tension to the new belt. The tensioner spring will automatically apply the correct amount of pressure.
7. Final Check: Visually inspect the entire path of the belt one last time to ensure it is perfectly aligned and seated in every pulley groove. Start the engine and let it run for a minute to confirm everything is operating smoothly and quietly.

Replacement Interval

Jeep does not specify a strict mileage or time-based replacement interval for the serpentine belt on the 2022 Gladiator. Instead, the belt should be inspected during regular oil changes and service appointments. As a general rule of thumb in the auto repair industry, it's wise to consider replacing the serpentine belt and tensioner between 60,000 and 100,000 miles to prevent an unexpected failure.

Signs of a Failing Belt or Tensioner

Your vehicle will often give you warning signs before a belt or tensioner fails completely. Ignoring these can lead to a breakdown, as the serpentine belt powers critical components like the alternator, water pump, and power steering.

• Squealing or Chirping Noises: This is the most common sign of a worn, glazed, or misaligned belt.
• Visible Cracks or Fraying: Inspect the ribbed side of the belt for cracks, missing chunks, or fraying along the edges.
• Accessory Malfunctions: If your battery light comes on (alternator not charging), the engine starts to overheat (water pump not turning), or you experience heavy steering (power steering not working), the belt may have failed.
• Tensioner Noise: A grinding or rattling noise coming from the tensioner pulley indicates a worn-out bearing.
• Jerky Tensioner Arm: Observe the tensioner arm with the engine running. If it is bouncing or vibrating excessively, the internal spring is weak and it should be replaced.

If you're not comfortable performing this service yourself, don't hesitate to find a trusted shop on Repairius.