Ram 5500 Serpentine Belt Drive Component Kit Guide for 2011-2016 Models
Everything you need to know before replacing the serpentine belt, tensioner, and pulleys on your 2011-2016 Ram 5500.
- Always replace the tensioner and idler pulleys with the serpentine belt as a complete kit, especially over 100,000 miles.
- Noises like squealing or grinding are the earliest warning signs of failure; investigate them immediately to avoid being stranded.
- Verify your exact engine (6.7L Cummins vs. 6.4L Hemi) and options (single vs. dual alternator) before buying a kit, as parts are not interchangeable.
- Aftermarket kits from brands like Gates offer excellent quality and value compared to expensive OEM parts.
Is Your Ram 5500's Serpentine Belt System Failing?
On a heavy-duty truck like the Ram 5500, the serpentine belt and its components are under constant stress. Whether you have the 6.7L Cummins diesel or the 6.4L Hemi gas engine, ignoring the warning signs can leave you stranded with an overheating engine or no power steering. Listen for these common symptoms.
Key Warning Signs
- Squealing or Chirping Noises: This is the most frequent sign of a problem. A high-pitched squeal, especially on a cold start or in wet weather, usually means the belt is slipping. 🎬 Watch this guide to diagnose exactly why your belt is squealing. This can be caused by a worn-out belt, fluid contamination from an oil or power steering leak, or a weak tensioner that isn't applying enough pressure.
- Grinding or Rumbling: A low grinding or humming sound that gets faster with engine RPM points to a bad bearing. This noise comes from a failing idler pulley, a worn-out tensioner pulley, or a bearing inside one of your accessories (like the alternator).
- Visible Wear and Tear: Pop the hood and look at the belt. If you see cracks, frayed edges, missing ribs, or a glazed, shiny appearance, it's time for a replacement.
- Accessory Problems: If your headlights are dimming, the battery light is on, the engine temperature is climbing, or you lose power steering, the belt may have already failed.
Critical Failure Warning
If the serpentine belt breaks, your engine will stop cooling, the battery will stop charging, and power steering will be lost. Do not drive the truck if the belt has failed, as you risk severe engine damage from overheating.
Choosing the Right Aftermarket Kit: OEM vs. Gates
When it's time for a replacement, you have a choice between original equipment (OEM) Mopar parts and aftermarket kits. For the Ram 5500, buying a complete kit is the smart move. The tensioner's spring weakens over time, and pulley bearings wear out. Replacing just the belt often leads to the new belt failing early because the old tensioner can't keep it tight.
- OEM Mopar: Mopar parts are a reliable, factory-spec choice. However, sourcing the belt, tensioner, and pulleys separately from the dealer can be very expensive. A Mopar tensioner alone can cost several hundred dollars.
- Aftermarket (Gates Kits): A complete kit from a reputable brand like Gates is the best value. Gates is a well-known OE supplier and their kits, like the heavy-duty FleetRunner line for Cummins engines, are trusted by many truck owners. These kits bundle the correct belt, tensioner, and idler pulley(s) together, ensuring all wear items are replaced at once for a reliable, long-lasting repair.
Pro Tip: Check Your Engine and Options
The 2011-2016 Ram 5500 came with either a 6.7L Cummins diesel or a 6.4L Hemi gas engine (starting in 2014). These use different kits. 🎬 Watch how to replace the serpentine belt kit on a 6.4L Hemi. Furthermore, some Cummins models have dual alternators, which requires a different belt. Always verify the kit fits your specific engine and configuration before ordering.
Known Issues: TSB for Belt Chirp
While no recalls directly affect the serpentine belt system on these trucks, Ram has issued Technical Service Bulletins (TSBs) for persistent belt chirp on some Cummins engines. In some cases, even after replacing the belt and tensioner, the noise can remain. This TSB suggests the underlying cause could be a faulty harmonic balancer. If you've replaced the kit and still have a chirp, this is the next thing to investigate.
| Part Type | Estimated Cost |
|---|---|
| New Aftermarket Kit (Gates) | $156 - $329 |
| New OEM (Mopar Parts) | $700+ (Tensioner alone can be $600+) |
| Shop Labor | $100 - $200 |
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
When should I replace the serpentine belt kit?
Most modern belts and components last between 60,000 and 100,000 miles. The best practice is to start inspecting the belt during every oil change after 60,000 miles. If you hear any noises or see any cracks or fraying, replace the entire kit immediately, regardless of mileage.
Can I replace just the belt instead of the whole kit?
You can, but it's not recommended, especially if your truck has over 100,000 miles. A worn tensioner or idler pulley will cause your new belt to wear out quickly and can leave you stranded. Replacing everything at once saves you from doing the job a second time.
Is this a difficult job to do myself?
For someone with basic mechanical skills, this is a manageable DIY job. You'll need a good socket set and a long breaker bar or serpentine belt tool to release the tensioner. On the 6.7L Cummins, removing the airbox provides much better access.
🎬 See a step-by-step walkthrough for replacing the belt on a Cummins.My new belt is squeaking. What's wrong?
If you installed a quality new belt and it's squeaking, the problem is likely elsewhere. The most common causes are a weak tensioner that wasn't replaced with the belt, a misaligned pulley, or fluid contamination. Make sure all pulleys are perfectly clean before installing the new parts.
Helpful Videos
Technical Specifications
OEM Part Numbers: 4627751AA 4627589AA 68232297AA
The serpentine belt system varies between the 6.7L Cummins and 6.4L Hemi engines. The 6.7L Cummins typically uses an 8-rib belt. Belt length and component design also differ based on whether the truck is equipped with a single or dual alternator setup. A complete kit includes the serpentine belt, an automatic tensioner assembly, and one or more idler pulleys.
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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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