Accessory Drive Belts for the 1987-1989 Dodge Raider
Understanding the multiple V-belts that keep your Raider's engine accessories running.
- Your 1987-1989 Raider uses multiple individual V-belts, not a single serpentine belt.
- Squealing noises are the first sign of wear and should not be ignored.
- It is highly recommended to replace all belts at the same time for system reliability.
- Top aftermarket brands like Gates, Continental, Dayco, and Bando are all excellent, reliable choices for this vehicle.
Signs of a Failing Accessory Drive Belt
A worn-out V-belt will give you clear warnings before it breaks. The most common sign is a loud squealing or chirping noise, especially when you first start the engine, during hard acceleration, or when turning the steering wheel all the way. This noise means the belt is slipping on its pulley. You should also visually inspect your belts regularly. Look for deep cracks, fraying edges, missing chunks, or a shiny, glazed surface, all of which mean the belt is old and needs to be replaced.
Why You Shouldn't Ignore a Squealing Belt
A squealing belt is a sign of a problem that will only get worse. If a belt breaks while you're driving, you will immediately lose that accessory. A broken alternator belt will stop the battery from charging, leaving you stranded when the battery dies. A failed power steering belt will make the steering incredibly heavy and difficult to turn. It's a critical safety and reliability item.
Choosing the Right Aftermarket Belts
For a vehicle like the 1987-1989 Raider, original OEM belts are likely discontinued and unnecessary. High-quality aftermarket brands offer excellent performance, often using modern rubber compounds that are more durable than the originals. All the listed brands are reputable choices.
- Top Tier (Premium Replacement): Gates and Continental are widely regarded by mechanics as top-tier brands for belts. Gates is often praised for its durability and is a massive OEM supplier. Continental (which now includes the former Goodyear Gatorback line) is also a trusted name known for quiet, reliable performance.
- OEM Quality (Standard Replacement): Dayco and Bando are also excellent choices and are major suppliers of belts to car manufacturers. Bando is a particularly common OEM supplier for Japanese vehicles, which is relevant since the Raider is a rebadged Mitsubishi Montero. Dayco belts are known to be durable and reliable performers as well.
Pro-Tip: Since you have multiple belts, it's a good practice to replace them all at the same time. The labor is roughly the same whether you replace one or all of them, and it ensures the reliability of the entire system.
| Item | Estimated Cost |
|---|---|
| New Aftermarket Belts (per belt) | $7.35 - $39.21 |
| Shop Labor (to replace all belts) | $75 - $150 |
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
How many accessory belts does my Dodge Raider have?
It depends on your engine and options. The 2.6L 4-cylinder engine typically has two or three separate V-belts for the alternator, power steering, and A/C. The 3.0L V6 available in 1989 may use a combination of V-belts and a multi-rib (serpentine) style belt for different accessories. Always confirm your specific engine's configuration before ordering.
What causes belt noise besides a worn belt?
Belt noise can also be caused by a weak or failing belt tensioner, a misaligned pulley, or a failing bearing in one of the accessories (like the alternator or water pump). A simple diagnostic trick is to spray a small amount of water on the belt's ribbed side while it's squealing; if the noise temporarily goes away, it's likely a belt or alignment issue. If the noise doesn't change or gets worse, it could be a bad bearing or tension problem.
Were there any recalls for the Dodge Raider's belts?
No, there have been no recalls issued by the NHTSA for the accessory drive belts on the 1987-1989 Dodge Raider. A Technical Service Bulletin (TSB) for some older Dodge trucks noted that belt chirp could be caused by excess paint in the water pump pulley grooves, which could be cleaned off.
Can I replace the belts myself?
Yes, this is a very feasible DIY job for a home mechanic. Replacement involves loosening the adjustment bolts on each accessory to create slack, removing the old belt, and installing the new one. The key is to get the tension right on the new belt—not too tight and not too loose. There should be about a half-inch of play when you press on the middle of the belt's longest span.
Technical Specifications
The accessory drive system uses multiple V-belts. The exact number and length of the belts depend on the engine (2.6L I4 or 3.0L V6) and the vehicle's options (with or without A/C, with or without power steering).
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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.
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