2017 Jeep Wrangler Serpentine Belt Routing & Replacement Guide

Quick Answer

For the 2017 Jeep Wrangler with the 3.6L V6 engine (the only engine option for this year):

• Belt Length: 2205mm (86.8 inches)
• Rib Count: 6-rib
• OEM Belt PN: Mopar 4627195AI
• Aftermarket Cross-references:
  • Gates K060868 (or K060868RPM for an RPM series belt)
  • Dayco 5060868
  • Continental Elite 4060868
• Auto-Tensioner PN: Mopar 4627196AD
  • Aftermarket Cross-references: Gates 38328, Dayco 89330, Continental Elite 49330
• Idler Pulley PN: Mopar 4627226AA
  • Aftermarket Cross-references: Gates 36209, Dayco 89139, Continental Elite 49139

Belt Routing

Before you begin any work, always take a clear photograph of your existing belt's routing! This will be your most valuable reference for proper reinstallation.

The 2017 Jeep Wrangler (3.6L V6 engine) serpentine belt routing is relatively straightforward. Starting from the crankshaft pulley at the bottom front of the engine, the belt typically follows this path:

1. Crankshaft Pulley: The belt originates from the accessory-side groove on the crankshaft pulley.
2. A/C Compressor Pulley: From the crankshaft, the belt routes upwards and around the A/C compressor pulley on the passenger side, typically wrapping over the top of it.
3. Idler Pulley: After the A/C compressor, the belt usually goes to the smooth idler pulley, which is often located above and slightly to the center of the A/C compressor. The belt will ride on the smooth back side of this pulley.
4. Alternator Pulley: From the idler, the belt then typically wraps around the alternator pulley, located high on the passenger side of the engine, engaging with the ribbed side of the belt.
5. Power Steering Pump Pulley: The belt then proceeds to the power steering pump pulley, generally located lower on the driver's side, engaging with the ribbed side.
6. Water Pump Pulley: After the power steering pump, the belt often wraps around the water pump pulley, usually located centrally on the engine, still engaging with the ribbed side.
7. Auto-Tensioner Pulley: Finally, the belt goes to the auto-tensioner pulley, typically located on the driver's side, close to the water pump. This pulley presses against the smooth back of the belt, maintaining tension.

Remember to verify this path against your photograph, as minor variations can occur.

How to Replace the Serpentine Belt

Replacing the serpentine belt on your 2017 Jeep Wrangler requires a few basic tools and a bit of patience. The key is to relieve the tensioner so you can remove and install the belt.

1. Gather Tools: You will need a serpentine belt tool or a long 3/8-inch drive breaker bar (or ratchet with sufficient leverage) and a socket that fits the hex head on the auto-tensioner (often 15mm or 16mm, verify visually).
2. Photograph: Once again, take a clear photo of the belt routing.
3. Relieve Tension: Locate the auto-tensioner. Insert your breaker bar or serpentine belt tool into the square drive hole or onto the hex bolt of the tensioner. Apply steady pressure in the direction that loosens the belt (typically clockwise, but confirm by seeing which way the tensioner arm moves). This will rotate the tensioner arm and release tension on the belt.
4. Remove Old Belt: While holding the tensioner open, carefully slip the old belt off one of the pulleys (the easiest is usually an idler or a smooth pulley).
5. Inspect Pulleys: With the belt off, take this opportunity to inspect all pulleys (alternator, A/C, power steering, water pump, idlers, tensioner) for any wobbles, excessive play, or grinding noises when spun by hand. Also, check the tensioner for smooth operation.
6. Install New Belt: Route the new belt around all pulleys according to your photograph and the description above, leaving the auto-tensioner pulley for last or using it as the final point to slip the belt on. Ensure the ribbed side of the belt is in the grooves of ribbed pulleys (crank, A/C, alternator, power steering, water pump) and the smooth back side is against smooth pulleys (idler, tensioner).
7. Release Tensioner: Once the belt is correctly routed on all pulleys, slowly release the tensioner. Double-check that the belt is squarely seated in all pulley grooves.
8. Start and Check: Start the engine and let it run for a minute, then shut it off. Re-check the belt routing and tension. Listen for any squealing or unusual noises.

Replacement Interval

While there isn't a universally strict replacement interval for serpentine belts, most manufacturers recommend inspecting them at every oil change and considering replacement around 60,000 to 100,000 miles, or every 5-7 years, whichever comes first. However, driving conditions and climate can affect longevity. Always replace the belt sooner if you notice any signs of wear.

Signs of a Failing Belt or Tensioner

Ignoring a failing serpentine belt or tensioner can lead to a breakdown, as it drives critical accessories like the alternator, power steering pump, and water pump. Be vigilant for these warning signs:

• Squealing or Chirping Noises: This is the most common sign. A loose, worn, or misaligned belt will often squeal, especially on cold starts, when turning the steering wheel, or during acceleration. Constant squealing can also indicate a failing tensioner or pulley bearing.
• Visible Cracks, Fraying, or Glazing: Inspect the belt visually. Look for cracks running across the ribs, fraying on the edges, chunks missing, or a shiny, glazed appearance on the ribbed side, which indicates hardening and loss of grip.
• Loss of Power Steering: If your power steering suddenly becomes difficult, especially at low speeds, the belt may have slipped or broken.
• Overheating Engine: The water pump, driven by the serpentine belt, circulates coolant. If the belt fails, the water pump stops, leading to rapid engine overheating.
• Battery Warning Light: The alternator charges the battery and powers the vehicle's electrical system. If the belt supporting the alternator fails, your battery will stop charging, and the battery warning light will illuminate.
• Accessory Malfunction: Any accessory driven by the belt (A/C, power steering, etc.) may stop working or perform poorly.
• Wobbling Pulleys or Tensioner: Visually inspect all pulleys while the engine is running (from a safe distance!). Any wobbling or excessive vibration from the pulleys or the tensioner itself indicates a problem that needs immediate attention.
• Tensioner Not Applying Sufficient Tension: If the tensioner arm doesn't rebound with strong force or appears to be at the end of its travel without proper belt tension, it's likely failing.

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