2024 Ram 2500 Serpentine Belt

Quick Answer

• Belt Length: Varies by engine. The 6.4L HEMI V8 typically uses a belt around 92 inches long, while the 6.7L Cummins diesel can be upwards of 100 inches depending on options.
• Rib Count: 6-rib for the 6.4L HEMI, and 8-rib for the 6.7L Cummins.
• OEM Belt PNs:
  • 6.4L V8 Gas: Mopar 68199585AA
  • 6.7L I6 Diesel: Mopar 68210219AA
• Aftermarket Cross-References (6.4L):
  • Gates K060920
  • Dayco 5060920
  • Continental 4060920
• Aftermarket Cross-References (6.7L):
  • Gates K081005
  • Dayco 5081005
  • Continental 4081005
• Auto-Tensioner PNs:
  • 6.4L V8 Gas: Mopar 53013942AA
  • 6.7L I6 Diesel: Mopar 68435293AA
• Idler Pulley PNs:
  • 6.4L V8 Gas: Mopar 53013864AA
  • 6.7L I6 Diesel: Mopar 68041261AB

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 will save you a lot of guesswork.

While the exact order can vary slightly based on sub-models and accessory configurations, a common routing for the 2024 Ram 2500 with the 6.4L HEMI V8 is as follows:

The belt winds its way from the main crankshaft pulley up and around the A/C compressor pulley. From there, it travels down to an idler pulley, then up to the alternator. Next, it goes down and around the power steering pump pulley, over the water pump, and finally back to the auto-tensioner before returning to the crankshaft pulley.

For the 6.7L Cummins Diesel, the principle is the same but involves a different component order. Always follow your reference photograph or a specific diagram for your engine.

How to Replace the Serpentine Belt

Replacing the serpentine belt on a 2024 Ram 2500 is a manageable task for a DIYer with the right tools. The key is releasing the tension from the auto-tensioner.

1. Gather Your Tools: You will need a serpentine belt tool, which is a long, thin ratchet with various socket and crowfoot attachments. Alternatively, a long-handled 3/8" drive breaker bar will often suffice.
2. Locate the Tensioner: The auto-tensioner is a spring-loaded pulley designed to keep the belt taut. On both the 6.4L and 6.7L engines, it has a 3/8" or 1/2" square hole where your tool will fit.
3. Release Tension: Fit the breaker bar or serpentine belt tool into the square hole on the tensioner body. Rotate the tensioner—this will require some force—to loosen the belt. You are working against its internal spring.
4. Remove Old Belt: Once the tension is released, slip the old belt off one of the smooth, non-lipped pulleys (like the idler or water pump) first. Then, carefully unthread it from the rest of the accessory pulleys.
5. Install New Belt: Thread the new belt according to your reference photo or diagram. The last pulley to loop it over should be one of the easier-to-reach smooth pulleys. Double-check that the belt is properly seated in the grooves of every ribbed pulley.
6. Re-apply Tension: Slowly release the breaker bar, allowing the tensioner to swing back and apply tension to the new belt.
7. Final Check: Run your fingers along the belt path to ensure it's correctly installed everywhere. Start the engine for a few seconds to make sure the belt is tracking properly, then shut it off and inspect again.

Replacement Interval

For a modern vehicle like the 2024 Ram 2500, you should inspect the serpentine belt at every oil change. While there's no universally mandated replacement interval, a general guideline is to replace the belt every 60,000 to 100,000 miles. Belts today are made of durable EPDM rubber and last much longer than the neoprene belts of the past. However, the harsh conditions under the hood of a heavy-duty truck mean proactive replacement is wise.

Signs of a Failing Belt or Tensioner

Listen and look for these warning signs:

• Squealing or Chirping: This is the classic sign of a slipping belt, which could be due to wear, fluid contamination (oil, power steering fluid), or a weak tensioner.
• Visible Wear: Inspect the belt for cracks, fraying, glazing (shiny spots on the surface), or missing chunks from the ribbed section.
• Tensioner Noise: A grinding or rattling noise coming from the tensioner pulley indicates its internal bearing is failing.
• "Bouncing" Tensioner Pulley: If you see the tensioner pulley vibrating or jumping erratically while the engine is running, its spring-loading mechanism is likely worn out and failing to provide steady tension.
• Accessory Problems: Dimming headlights (alternator), stiff steering (power steering), or engine overheating (water pump) can all be caused by a slipping or broken serpentine belt.

If you're not comfortable tackling this job yourself, Repairius can help. Find a trusted shop on Repairius.