2017 Ram 3500 Serpentine Belt Guide

Quick Answer

• Belt Length: 2,470 mm (97.25 inches)
• Rib Count: 8-rib
• OEM Belt Part Number: Mopar 04627473AA
• Aftermarket Cross-References:
  • Gates K080972
  • Dayco 5080970
  • Continental 4080972
• Auto-Tensioner Part Number: Mopar 04627471AB
• Idler Pulley Part Number: Mopar 04627472AA

Note: Part numbers listed are for the 2017 Ram 3500 equipped with the 6.7L Cummins diesel engine without the dual alternator option. Always verify part numbers with your VIN before purchasing.

Belt Routing

Before you remove the old serpentine belt, it is critical to photograph the existing belt routing from a few different angles. This will be your best guide for installing the new belt.

The belt routing for the 2017 Ram 3500 with the 6.7L Cummins engine is as follows:

1. Starts at the crankshaft pulley at the bottom center of the engine.
2. Wraps up and around the A/C compressor on the upper passenger side.
3. Goes down and around the idler pulley, which is located below the A/C compressor.
4. Travels up and over the alternator at the top center of the engine.
5. Comes down to the power steering pump on the driver's side.
6. Goes under the water pump, which is located in the center of the engine block.
7. Finally, the back of the belt contacts the tensioner pulley before returning to the crankshaft.

How to Replace the Serpentine Belt

Replacing the serpentine belt on a 6.7L Cummins is a straightforward task with the right tool. You will need a serpentine belt tool or a long 3/8" drive breaker bar to release the tension on the belt.

1. Locate the Tensioner: The automatic belt tensioner is located between the water pump and the crankshaft pulley. It has a 3/8" square hole in the arm of the tensioner body.
2. Release Tension: Insert the 3/8" drive end of your breaker bar or serpentine belt tool into the square hole on the tensioner. Rotate the tensioner clockwise (towards the passenger side) to release the tension on the belt.
3. Remove Old Belt: While holding the tensioner, carefully slip the old belt off one of the smooth, non-ribbed pulleys, like the idler or water pump pulley.
4. Inspect Pulleys: Before installing the new belt, spin each pulley by hand. They should spin freely and quietly. A noisy or wobbly pulley indicates a failing bearing, and the component should be replaced.
5. Install New Belt: Using your photograph as a guide, route the new belt around all the pulleys, saving one of the easily accessible smooth pulleys for last. Double-check that the ribs of the belt are correctly seated in the grooves of each ribbed pulley.
6. Apply Tension: Once you are certain the belt is correctly routed, slowly release the tensioner to apply pressure to the new belt.

Replacement Interval

For the 2017 Ram 3500, it is recommended to inspect the serpentine belt at every oil change. A visual inspection can reveal cracks, fraying, or glazing. While there is no strict mileage replacement interval, most technicians recommend replacing the serpentine belt and tensioner every 60,000 to 90,000 miles as preventative maintenance.

Signs of a Failing Belt or Tensioner

Your truck will give you warning signs that the serpentine belt or tensioner is nearing the end of its life. Ignoring these signs can lead to a breakdown.

• Squealing or Chirping Noises: This is the most common sign of a worn or misaligned belt. The noise may be more noticeable on cold starts or during acceleration.
• Visible Wear: Look for cracks, fraying, missing ribs, or a shiny, glazed appearance on the belt.
• Tensioner Pulley Misalignment: The tensioner arm should be steady while the engine is running. If you see it fluttering or jumping, the spring inside the tensioner is weak and the assembly needs to be replaced.
• Accessory Malfunctions: The serpentine belt drives accessories like the power steering pump, alternator, and A/C compressor. If you experience dimming headlights, difficulty steering, or poor A/C performance, a slipping belt could be the culprit.

If you're not comfortable tackling this job yourself, Repairius can help.

Find a trusted shop on Repairius.