Mid-size Dodge trucks come equipped with the 318 engine. The engine accessories located on the front of the 318 engine are controlled by a single accessory belt. The belt routes around each accessory pulley in a way that allows the belt to operate all accessories at the same time. While the motor is running, the crankshaft drives the belt around the accessories. When the belt starts to fray, it is important to replace it with a new one.
Locate the serpentine belt routing diagram on the left side of the radiator shroud. Refer to the routing instructions in this diagram when routing the new belt.
Inspect the front of the engine and locate the spring-loaded belt tensioner underneath the alternator. Use the tensioner pulley bolt to loosen the tension from the belt.
Position the breaker bar and a socket onto the bolt located in the center of the tensioner pulley. Rotate the breaker bar in a clockwise direction to loosen the tension from the belt.
Remove the belt from the tensioner pulley, and slowly let the tensioner retract until it stops.
Slide the belt out of each accessory pulley and around each fan blade. Pull the belt out of the engine well.
Route the new belt around each fan blade and around each accessory, exactly as described by the belt routing diagram.
Turn the tensioner clockwise, and slide the belt onto the tensioner pulley. Release the tensioner; as it retracts, it will tighten the belt to the proper tension.
Crank the 318 engine for 10 to 15 seconds to finish seating the belt onto the inside of the pulleys. Turn the engine off.
