2018 Ram ProMaster Serpentine Belt Routing & Replacement Guide

Quick Answer

• Belt Length: Approximately 2240mm (88.2 inches)
• Rib Count: 6-Rib
• OEM Belt PN: 05038475AD (verify with your specific engine and VIN)
• Aftermarket Cross-Reference (Examples - verify before purchase):
  • Gates K060882
  • Dayco 5060882
  • Continental Elite 4060882
• Auto-Tensioner PN: Verify with your specific engine and VIN (e.g., Mopar 05184323AC for some 3.6L engines)
• Idler Pulley PN: Verify with your specific engine and VIN (e.g., Mopar 05184324AA for some 3.6L engines)

Belt Routing

The 2018 Ram ProMaster serpentine belt routing can vary slightly depending on the engine option (most commonly the 3.6L Pentastar V6 or the 3.0L EcoDiesel I4). Always photograph your existing belt routing before removal to ensure correct reinstallation.

Here's a general routing for the 3.6L Pentastar V6 engine:

1. Starting from the crankshaft pulley (bottom-most central pulley),
2. The belt goes up and to the right over the A/C compressor pulley.
3. From the A/C compressor, it goes down and to the left around an idler pulley.
4. From the idler pulley, it travels up to the alternator pulley (typically high on the passenger side).
5. From the alternator, it goes across to the left (towards the driver's side) and then down around the power steering pump pulley.
6. From the power steering pump, it then goes up and to the right around the water pump pulley.
7. Finally, from the water pump, it wraps down to the automatic tensioner pulley (usually located below the water pump), which keeps the belt taut.

How to Replace the Serpentine Belt

Replacing the serpentine belt on your 2018 Ram ProMaster is a job that can be done at home with the right tools, but always consult a service manual for detailed, model-specific instructions.

1. Safety First: Ensure the engine is off and cool. Disconnect the negative battery terminal to prevent accidental starting.
2. Document Routing: As mentioned, take clear photos of the current belt routing before you begin.
3. Locate the Tensioner: Identify the automatic tensioner pulley. It will have a square slot or a bolt head compatible with a serpentine belt tool or a standard wrench/ratchet.
4. Relieve Tension: Insert a serpentine belt tool or a 3/8-inch breaker bar into the square drive opening on the tensioner. Gently rotate the tensioner to relieve tension on the belt. This will allow you to slip the belt off the pulleys.
5. Remove Old Belt: Once tension is relieved, carefully remove the belt from all pulleys, starting with the easiest ones.
6. Inspect Pulleys: While the belt is off, inspect all pulleys for any signs of wear, wobbling, or excessive noise when spun by hand. Check for any build-up that could reduce belt grip.
7. Install New Belt: Route the new belt according to the diagram or your photos. Start by placing the belt around all stationary pulleys first, leaving the tensioner pulley or one easy pulley for last.
8. Re-apply Tension: Once the belt is mostly routed, again apply pressure to the tensioner with your tool, and slip the belt over the remaining pulley. Slowly release the tensioner, ensuring the belt seats correctly in all pulley grooves.
9. Double-Check Routing: Verify that the belt is correctly seated on all pulleys and follows the exact routing path.
10. Reconnect Battery & Test: Reconnect the negative battery terminal. Start the engine and let it run for a few seconds, observing the belt to ensure it tracks correctly and smoothly without any unusual noises or wobbles. Turn off the engine and re-check the belt a final time.

Replacement Interval

Serpentine belts on modern vehicles like the 2018 Ram ProMaster are designed for longevity. Generally, it's recommended to inspect the belt every 30,000 to 50,000 miles and consider replacement between 60,000 to 100,000 miles, or every 5-7 years, whichever comes first. However, consult your vehicle's owner's manual for the precise recommended maintenance schedule for your specific engine.

Signs of a Failing Belt or Tensioner

Don't wait for a complete belt failure, which can leave you stranded. Be aware of these warning signs:

• Squealing or Chirping Noises: This is one of the most common signs, especially during cold starts or when turning the steering wheel (power steering pump). It could indicate a worn belt, a misaligned pulley, or a failing tensioner.
• Cracks, Fraying, or Glazing: Visually inspect the belt for signs of wear. Cracks on the ribbed side, fraying edges, or a shiny, glazed appearance are indicators that the belt is deteriorating.
• Loss of Power Steering, A/C, or Charging: If the belt breaks or slips significantly, critical components like the power steering pump, A/C compressor, and alternator will stop working, leading to a loss of these functions.
• Battery Warning Light: If the alternator isn't spinning due to a slipping or broken belt, the battery warning light will illuminate.
• Engine Overheating: If the water pump isn't driven by the serpentine belt, the engine can quickly overheat.
• Tensioner Noise or Movement: A failing tensioner might exhibit rattling, grinding noises, or excessive vibration. If the tensioner arm is not maintaining constant tension, the belt can become loose.

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