2017 Toyota Tundra Serpentine Belt: Routing & Replacement Guide

Quick Answer

For your 2017 Toyota Tundra with the 5.7L V8 engine, here are the key serpentine belt specifications and part numbers:

• Belt Length: Approximately 98.7 inches (2507 mm)
• Rib Count: 6-rib
• OEM Belt PN: Toyota 90916-A2002
• Aftermarket Cross-references:
  • Gates K060987 (or K060980 depending on specific build)
  • Dayco 5060985
  • Continental Elite 4060987
• Auto-Tensioner PN: Toyota 16620-0S010
• Idler Pulley PN: Toyota 16603-0S010

Note: If your Tundra has the 4.6L V8 engine, the belt length and part numbers may differ. Always verify part numbers with your VIN for the most accurate fitment.

Belt Routing

Before you begin any work, always take a clear photograph of your current serpentine belt routing! This will be your invaluable guide during reinstallation.

For the 5.7L V8 engine in your 2017 Toyota Tundra, the serpentine belt typically routes as follows:

1. Starting from the Crankshaft Pulley (the large pulley at the bottom, directly connected to the engine).
2. The belt will go down and under the A/C Compressor Pulley (located on the lower passenger side).
3. From the A/C compressor, the belt routes up and over the first Idler Pulley (a small, smooth pulley, usually near the A/C compressor or slightly above it).
4. Next, the belt goes up and over the Alternator Pulley (located high on the driver's side).
5. From the alternator, the belt routes down and under the Power Steering Pump Pulley (usually below the alternator).
6. The belt then travels up and over the Water Pump Pulley (typically centrally located or slightly towards the driver's side, often with a flat appearance).
7. Finally, the belt runs down and under the Automatic Belt Tensioner Pulley (often located on the lower driver's side, identifiable by its spring-loaded mechanism), before returning to the crankshaft pulley.

This creates a multi-ribbed path that drives all your essential engine accessories.

How to Replace the Serpentine Belt

Replacing your serpentine belt is a manageable DIY task for many, though it requires specific tools and attention to detail:

1. Safety First: Ensure the engine is off and cool. Disconnect the negative terminal of your battery.
2. Locate the Tensioner: Find the automatic belt tensioner. It will have a square opening (usually 3/8" or 1/2") or a hex bolt head where a wrench can be applied.
3. Release Tension: Use a serpentine belt tool or a long breaker bar/ratchet with the correct size socket (or the square drive) to rotate the tensioner. This will release the tension on the belt.
4. Remove Old Belt: While holding the tensioner open, carefully slide the old belt off one of the pulleys (e.g., the alternator or idler pulley) to fully remove it.
5. Inspect Pulleys: Before installing the new belt, spin each pulley by hand. They should spin freely and quietly without any wobble. Replace any noisy or wobbly pulleys.
6. Route New Belt: Refer to your photograph and the routing description above. Route the new belt around all pulleys, leaving the tensioner pulley (or another easily accessible pulley) for last.
7. Tension and Confirm: Apply tension to the tensioner again with your tool. Carefully slide the belt onto the final pulley. Slowly release the tensioner, ensuring the belt seats correctly in all the grooves of all the pulleys. Double-check the routing one last time.
8. Start Engine: Reconnect the battery. Start the engine briefly and listen for any abnormal noises. Turn off the engine and visually inspect the belt again to ensure it's running true.

Replacement Interval

Toyota recommends inspecting the serpentine belt at regular intervals, typically every 15,000 to 30,000 miles, and replacing it as needed. General recommendations often suggest replacement between 60,000 to 100,000 miles, or every 5-7 years, whichever comes first. However, driving conditions and climate can affect its lifespan. Always prioritize visual inspection for wear.

Signs of a Failing Belt or Tensioner

Don't wait for a complete failure. Be aware of these common signs:

• Squealing or Chirping Noises: Often most noticeable on startup, during turns, or when accessories like the A/C are engaged. This can indicate a worn belt, misaligned pulley, or failing tensioner.
• Visible Cracks, Fraying, or Glazing: Inspect the belt's ribs for any signs of wear. Cracks across the ribs, missing chunks, or a shiny, glazed appearance on the belt surface are all red flags.
• Loss of Power to Accessories: If your power steering suddenly feels heavy, the A/C stops blowing cold, or the battery light comes on (indicating the alternator isn't charging), it could be due to a slipping or broken serpentine belt.
• Wobbling or Vibrating Tensioner/Pulleys: Observe the tensioner and idler pulleys while the engine is running (from a safe distance). Excessive wobble, vibration, or a grinding noise coming from a pulley indicates a failing bearing.
• Loose or Slap Belt: If the belt appears unusually loose or "slapping" during operation, the tensioner may be weak and not applying enough force.

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