2023 Ram 1500: Serpentine Belt Routing and Replacement

Quick Answer: 2023 Ram 1500 Serpentine Belt Part Numbers

For the 3.6L Pentastar V6 Engine:

• Serpentine Belt Length and Rib Count: 90.5 inches (2299 mm), 6-rib
• OEM Mopar Belt Part Number: 68293321AA
• Aftermarket Belt Cross-References:
  • Gates: K060905
  • Dayco: 5060905
  • Continental: 4060905
• Automatic Belt Tensioner Part Number: 04893424AB
• Idler Pulley Part Number: 04862843AC

For the 5.7L HEMI V8 Engine (with and without eTorque):

• Serpentine Belt Length and Rib Count: 98.4 inches (2499 mm), 6-rib
• OEM Mopar Belt Part Number: 68444249AA
• Aftermarket Belt Cross-References:
  • Gates: K060980
  • Dayco: 5060980
  • Continental: 4060980
• Automatic Belt Tensioner Part Number: 04893424AB
• Idler Pulley Part Number: 04862843AC

Note: Always verify part numbers with your VIN at your local dealership or parts supplier to ensure you get the correct parts for your specific engine and options.

Belt Routing

The serpentine belt on the 2023 Ram 1500 follows a specific path to drive all engine accessories. Before you remove the old belt, it is crucial to either find a belt routing diagram for your specific engine or take a clear photograph of the existing belt's path. This will be your guide for installing the new belt.

The routing path for the 5.7L HEMI V8 engine is as follows:

1. The belt starts at the crankshaft pulley at the bottom of the engine.
2. From the crankshaft pulley, the belt travels up and around the A/C compressor pulley.
3. Next, it goes around the idler pulley.
4. From the idler pulley, the belt moves to the alternator pulley.
5. Then, it routes around the power steering pump pulley.
6. The belt then goes around the water pump pulley.
7. Finally, the belt wraps around the automatic tensioner pulley, which applies the necessary tension to the belt.

How to Replace the Serpentine Belt

Replacing the serpentine belt on a 2023 Ram 1500 is a straightforward job for a DIYer with the right tools. The key to the job is the automatic belt tensioner. You will need a serpentine belt tool, which is a long, thin wrench with various socket and crow's foot attachments, or a long-handled 3/8" drive breaker bar.

To release the tension on the belt, you will insert the square drive of your breaker bar or the appropriate adapter from your serpentine belt tool kit into the square hole on the body of the tensioner. Then, you will rotate the tensioner to loosen the belt. Once the tension is released, you can slip the belt off the pulleys.

When installing the new belt, carefully follow the routing diagram or the photo you took earlier. It is often easiest to leave the belt off a smooth, non-grooved pulley, like the idler pulley, for last. Once the belt is routed correctly on all the grooved pulleys, apply pressure to the tensioner again and slip the belt over the final pulley.

Replacement Interval

While there is no universally mandated replacement interval for the serpentine belt on the 2023 Ram 1500, it is a good idea to inspect the belt at every oil change. Most technicians recommend replacing the serpentine belt as a preventative measure between 60,000 and 90,000 miles.

Signs of a Failing Belt or Tensioner

It is important to be aware of the signs of a failing serpentine belt or tensioner. A sudden belt failure will cause you to lose power steering, the water pump will stop circulating coolant, and the alternator will no longer charge the battery, leaving you stranded.

Here are some common signs that your serpentine belt or tensioner needs attention:

• Squealing or Chirping Noises: This is the most common sign of a worn or contaminated serpentine belt.
• Visible Wear: Inspect the belt for cracks, fraying, glazing (a shiny appearance on the belt’s surface), or missing ribs.
• Accessory Malfunctions: If your power steering feels heavy, your battery light is on, or your engine is overheating, a failed serpentine belt could be the cause.
• Tensioner Noise: A rattling or grinding noise coming from the front of the engine could indicate a failing bearing in the tensioner or idler pulley.
• Wobbling Tensioner Pulley: If you can see the tensioner pulley wobbling or vibrating excessively while the engine is running, the tensioner is likely worn out.

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