Community Forums

RanchoT · 04-09-2013, 11:35 AM

I bought a 1997 Beaver Montery last September and I believe it is ready for the road, but I have a couple of questions.

How long will the serpintine belt last on a 3126 300 h.p, Caterpillar diesel?

AND:

Can anyone explain to me how to change the belts on this engine?
This motorhome has a rear radiator and it doesn't look like there is access to the belt area?

John at RanchoT@msn.com

1997 Beaver Montery

greatlakes · 04-09-2013, 12:01 PM

The belt material is the same as you would find on your passenger car. However other things will effect the longevity of a belt. Where you live (climate) use and care. The simple answer is about 5 years but inspect it every couple months and if your concerned buy a spare to keep with you.
As far as how to change they are not that difficult but might be hard to reach in your case with a rear radiator. Not something you prob want to attempt along side the hwy in the dark.

Tony Lee · 04-09-2013, 12:06 PM

Assuming you can lift the bed to get access to the top of the engine as in my MH, there is enough access to change the belt. Plenty of padding for the knees and you can kneel at the side near the turbocharger (being careful with the oil lube pipe) and bend right over the belt area.
Square drive handle (longer is better) fits into the square hole on the tensioner so you can provide enough force to unload the tensioner enough to slip the belt off the top pulley (alternator??) and then the rest is easy.
Might need a second pair of hands underneath to make sure the belt is seated properly on the crankshaft pulley, but not really a difficult job.

No top access and things get a lot lot harder.

Water pump belt is a bit harder but not too bad once the long belt is off.

LJ2654 · 04-10-2013, 08:11 PM

On my 2001 Beaver Contessa I access the belts from a long panel in rear clset floor. Held in place with about 12 screws,heavy and insulated beneath cover. Take this off and belt access not bad, just a bit of reaching to tensioner.

Mr_D · 04-10-2013, 08:18 PM

I've always found that they pretty much last till they break. Your guess as to when that is!!! As things age (me included) things tend to break or quit functioning.

I changed mine at about 5 years, kept the used, but still good one for a spare. That way I have a known good spare with me. Have a side radiator so it takes me longer to find the tools and remove the compressor belt than to change the serpentine one and put it back together.