Serpentine belt part number dilemma

[JCR]

The part number for the 1997-1998 model years are the same. It changes again in 1999 . I have the new decoupler alternator that was put on my 98. Should I use the part number for the 2001 model year since this was the model year when they installed the decoupler pulley on the automatics, or should I stick with the 98 part number.. ??Any help is appreciated.

 

[c4c5specialist]

Hi there,
Use the number for your year car. There were some changes on the tensioner, thus the belt.
Ideally, I would get the number for the belt for your year.
Allthebest, c4c5

 

[y2khardtop]

btw, the C5 uses an odd belt which can be hard to find. I run a slightly shorter belt with a Katech tensioner and 10% underdrive pulley. Napa seems to be the only place that can get belts in this size range.

27/32 6 rib
80 3/8 204.15 cm
NBH25060798 Stock for an 01

Here are the next shorter sizes

NBH25060795 80 1/8 in 203.5cm

NBH25060790 79 1/2 " 201.9cm

NBH25060785 79 1/8" 200.785 cm

Thought this might be useful to someone. Autozone/Advance, etc don't carry these!

 

[JCR]

That seems to be the advice that c5 is on line with. The 98 would be shorter I think due to the design not having a decoupler clutch . A slightly shorter belt would seemingly provide more tension hence less oscillation? or will it cause more stretch and more oscillation. I really can't get a definitive answer what would correct this stretching problem ..more tension/less tension. If you know share your thoughts thanks

 

[y2khardtop]

I just looked, and the 97 belt is only 1/8" longer than the 01' belt. I don't think you'll have a problem with either

 

[JCR]

Well, then, if the 01 is shorter then I think that might be a better bet. Allowing for stretch 1/8 might make the difference.

 

[y2khardtop]

sorry, scratch that. The 97 is 80 3/16 and the new style is 80 3/8. The old style is shorter. Regardless, they are very close

 

[c4c5specialist]

Hi there,
12561501 is the correct part number for your car. This is the updated part, and is common in all parts stores. If you cross reference the number, you will do just fine.
Allthebest, c4c5

 

[JCR]

Thanks for all the help.