Dakota 4WD V8-5.2L VIN Y (1998)
Drive Belt: Component Tests and General Diagnostics
VISUAL DIAGNOSIS
When diagnosing serpentine accessory drive belts, small cracks that run across the ribbed surface of the belt from rib to rib, are considered normal.
These are not a reason to replace the belt. However, cracks running along a rib (not across) are not normal. Any belt with cracks running along a rib
must be replaced. Also replace the belt if it has excessive wear, frayed cords or severe glazing.
NOISE DIAGNOSIS
Noises generated by the accessory drive belt are most noticeable at idle. Before replacing a belt to resolve a noise condition, inspect all of the
accessory drive pulleys for alignment, glazing, or excessive end play.
