Accessory Drive V-Belt Guide for the 1979-1982 Dodge D50
Keep your classic D50 running right by understanding its V-belt system and choosing the best replacement.
- Your 1979-1982 D50 has multiple V-belts, not a single serpentine belt; you must buy the correct belt for each specific accessory.
- Before ordering, verify your engine (2.0L or 2.6L) and accessories (A/C, power steering) to ensure you get the right length belts.
- It is highly recommended to replace all belts at the same time, as they wear at a similar rate.
- Gates, Continental, and Dayco are all reputable aftermarket brands that offer quality and reliability exceeding the original parts.
Understanding Your D50's V-Belt System
It is critical to know that the 1979-1982 Dodge D50 does not use a modern, single serpentine belt. It has a multi-belt system using V-belts, named for their V-shaped cross-section that fits into the grooves of your engine's pulleys. Depending on whether you have the 2.0L or 2.6L engine, and options like power steering or air conditioning, your truck may have two or more belts. This is different from the engine's timing belt, which is a separate, toothed belt that keeps internal engine components synchronized.
These trucks use a manual tensioning system. There is no automatic spring-loaded tensioner. To replace or tighten a belt, you loosen the bolts on an accessory (like the alternator), pivot it to create tension, and then tighten the bolts back down.
Signs of a Failing Accessory Drive Belt
A bad V-belt will almost always give you a warning before it breaks. Ignoring these signs can leave you stranded.
- Squealing Noises: This is the most common symptom. A high-pitched squeal, especially when you start the engine, accelerate, or turn on the A/C, usually means a belt is slipping because it's worn, loose, or contaminated with fluids.
- Visible Damage: Look at your belts. If you see deep cracks, fraying edges, missing chunks, or a smooth, shiny surface (known as glazing), the belt is old and needs to be replaced.
- Accessory Failure: If your battery isn't charging (alternator), your engine temperature is rising (water pump), or steering becomes difficult (power steering), the belt driving that component may have failed or is slipping badly.
Common Ordering Mistake
The biggest mistake D50 owners make is ordering the wrong belt. The length and width of the belts you need depend entirely on your truck's engine (2.0L or 2.6L) and which accessories are installed (A/C, Power Steering). Always verify which belt you are replacing. Part descriptions will specify what they drive, such as "Fan and Alternator" or "Power Steering".
Choosing the Right Aftermarket Belt
For a vehicle of this age, finding new Original Equipment (OEM) Mopar belts is highly unlikely. Fortunately, modern aftermarket belts from reputable brands are excellent and often made with better materials, like EPDM rubber, than the original neoprene belts. This means they resist heat, oil, and cracking better than the originals ever did.
Brand Tiers
- Premium Brands (Gates, Continental): Gates is a top-tier brand frequently recommended by mechanics for its quality and durability. Continental (which now owns the Goodyear belt line) is also considered an excellent OEM-quality choice. You can't go wrong with either of these for reliability.
- Standard Reliable Brands (Dayco): Dayco is a well-known and trusted brand that offers a great balance of performance and price. They are a solid choice for any D50 and are widely available.
Pro Tip: If one of your belts has failed due to age, the others are likely not far behind. It is best practice to replace all the accessory drive belts at the same time. This saves you from doing the same job multiple times.
| Part Type | Price Range |
|---|---|
| New Aftermarket (Each) | $7.35 - $40.66 |
| Shop Labor (All Belts) | $75 - $150 |
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
How many belts does my 1979-1982 Dodge D50 have?
It depends on your engine and options. Most configurations will have at least two belts, but trucks with both power steering and air conditioning may have more. You must check your specific vehicle to be sure.
Should I get a standard V-belt or a cogged/notched one?
Many modern replacement V-belts are notched or cogged. These notches help the belt run cooler and be more flexible, which can improve its lifespan. Either a standard (wrapped) or cogged belt from a quality brand will work well on your D50.
Is replacing the drive belts a good DIY job?
Yes. For someone with basic hand tools, this is a very manageable job. Since there is no automatic tensioner, the process involves loosening an accessory, replacing the belt, and re-tensioning it by hand before tightening the bolts. There are many general guides online for replacing V-belts on classic vehicles.
Are there any recalls for the drive belts on my D50?
No. Searches of the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) database did not show any recalls or investigations related to accessory drive belts for the 1979-1982 Dodge D50.
Technical Specifications
System Type: Multiple V-Belt Tensioner Type: Manual (No Automatic Tensioner) Belt Material: EPDM is the modern standard, superior to original neoprene. Common Brands: Gates, Dayco, Continental
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The information in this article is provided for general reference and educational purposes only. Vehicle specifications, procedures, and part compatibility can vary by production date, trim level, and region. Always consult your vehicle's factory service manual and verify part numbers before purchasing or performing repairs. Safety-critical components such as airbags, seat belts, and braking systems should be installed by a qualified professional.