A Guide to the Accessory Drive Belts for the 1989-1996 Eagle Summit
Understanding the multiple drive belts on your Eagle Summit is the key to buying the right replacement part.
- Your Summit uses multiple V-belts, not a single serpentine belt. You must know your engine size and accessories to buy the correct parts.
- Reputable aftermarket brands like Continental, Dayco, and Gates are excellent choices for this vehicle.
- It is cost-effective and preventative to replace all drive belts at the same time.
- While replacing the belts, always inspect the tensioners and pulleys for wobble or noise to prevent premature failure of the new belts.
Understanding Your Summit's Belt System
When shopping for belts for your 1989-1996 Eagle Summit, it's important to know that it does not have a single serpentine belt. Instead, it uses two or more separate V-belts. One belt might run the alternator and water pump, while a second belt runs the A/C compressor. The exact number and size of the belts you need depend on two things: your engine size (1.5L, 1.6L, 1.8L, or 2.4L) and what accessories are installed (with or without A/C, with or without power steering).
Common Ordering Mistake
The most common mistake is ordering the wrong belt. Before you buy, you must confirm your Summit's engine size and which accessories it has. A belt for a 1.5L engine without A/C will not fit a 1.8L engine with A/C. Always verify the part description lists your specific configuration.
Signs of a Failing Drive Belt
A worn or failing drive belt will give you clear warning signs. Ignoring them can leave you stranded.
- Squealing Noises: A high-pitched squeal, especially when starting the engine or turning the steering wheel, is the most common symptom. This is caused by the belt slipping on the pulleys. 🎬 Watch this guide to diagnose and fix belt squealing noises.
- Visible Wear: Inspect your belts. Look for cracks, fraying, missing chunks, or a glazed, shiny appearance on the ribbed side. Modern EPDM rubber belts may not show cracks as easily but can fail from material loss in the grooves.
- Accessory Failure: If your power steering becomes heavy, the battery light comes on (alternator failure), or the engine temperature rises quickly (water pump failure), a broken belt is a likely cause.
Choosing the Right Aftermarket Belts
For a vehicle like the Eagle Summit, original equipment (OEM) belts are likely discontinued or very expensive. High-quality aftermarket brands offer excellent performance and value. Brands like Continental, Dayco, and Gates are all well-regarded manufacturers that supply parts to automakers.
- Good (Entry-Level): Standard replacement belts from Dayco or Continental will meet original specifications and provide reliable service for daily driving. They are an affordable and dependable option.
- Better (Premium): Premium lines from these brands often feature advanced EPDM rubber compounds and cord materials for longer life and quieter operation. Gates is often considered a top-tier, durable choice by many mechanics.
- Best (Problem-Solver): Some brands, like Continental's former "Gatorback" line, have unique designs to reduce noise on drives with slight pulley misalignment. While not usually necessary, they can be a solution for persistent squeaking issues.
Ultimately, any belt from these three brands is a trustworthy choice. Avoid unbranded or "white-box" store brands, as their quality can be inconsistent.
Estimated Costs
| Part/Service | Estimated Cost |
|---|---|
| New Aftermarket Belt (Single) | $7.78 - $25.00 |
| New Aftermarket Belts (Full Set) | $20.00 - $59.70 |
| Shop Labor (Single Belt) | $75 - $150 |
Frequently Asked Questions
How often should I replace my Eagle Summit's drive belts?
As a general rule, inspect the belts every year and plan on replacing them every 60,000 miles or every 5-6 years, whichever comes first. Rubber deteriorates over time, even if the mileage is low.
Should I replace all the belts at once?
Yes, it is highly recommended. The belts are all the same age and exposed to the same conditions. If one is worn out, the others are likely not far behind. Replacing them all at once saves on labor costs in the long run.
Do I need to replace the tensioner or pulleys with the belts?
Not always, but you should inspect them. With the old belts off, spin each pulley by hand. They should spin smoothly and quietly. If you feel any roughness, hear grinding noises, or notice any wobble, the pulley or the component it's attached to should be replaced. A bad pulley can destroy a new belt quickly.
🎬 See how to properly inspect your belt tensioners and pulleys.Is this a difficult DIY job?
For a mechanically inclined person with basic tools, this is a very manageable job. The process involves locating the manual tensioner for each belt, loosening it to create slack, and swapping the belt. Access can be tight depending on the engine. Always take a picture of the belt routing before you remove the old one.
🎬 Watch a step-by-step walkthrough on how to replace a drive belt.Helpful Videos
Technical Specifications
The 1989-1996 Eagle Summit uses a multi-belt system with V-belts of varying lengths and rib counts depending on engine (1.5L, 1.6L, 1.8L, 2.4L) and accessories (A/C, Power Steering). Belts are typically made of EPDM rubber with polyester reinforcement cords. Due to the high number of variations, there is no single universal part number.
We Have This Part in Stock
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.
- Eagle Summit: