Originally Posted by Brian Carlton (Post 2919778)

Wow, can I commiserate.

The '84 is identical.

I've tried to purchase some 1005mm belts to attempt to get them on without removing the fan. Not only did it not work, but the 1005's were of a different configuration and only lasted six months. The section width was less than the 1000's.

So, I go to replace the 1005's and I snap the tensioning bolt because I don't put a wrench on the forward side and the counter torque snaps the threads right off.

Finally get back to it about four months later and it takes three hours to carefully remove the fan, remove the p/s belt, remove the a/c belt, install the the two alternator belts, install the fan, install the the a/c belt, install the p/s belt.

I agree..........it's the absolute biggest PITA that I have ever seen. A mechanic would need $300. in labor to change the alternator belts on the latest models of SD.

Originally Posted by vstech (Post 2920484)

I SOOOOO like my 82's configuration...
I now have an 85... and the first thing I'm going to do to it, is cut off all the belts, and install a set... I'll put it on video and see where it goes.
I've only got an 8GB card in the camera... how many hours will it take?

Originally Posted by JamesDean (Post 2920502)

Man..what did they do in the later 84/85 SD's belt drive thats so much more difficult than my 82's?

Even the 420SEL wasnt bad when it threw its alt belt a few months ago.

Originally Posted by funola (Post 2920600)

What year model 617's have difficult to change alt belts? I changed them on my 83 300DT a year and a half ago when the last belt finally broke (bitter end of the dual belts- yeah I kept driving it with only one belt for a long time) and do not recall any problems or cursing episodes. I also do not remember having to remove the fan either.

Originally Posted by JamesDean (Post 2920604)

I think its on the 84/85 models. My 82 is like your 83.

Originally Posted by JamesDean (Post 2920592)

45 minutes to remove the fan?!

Anyone have a picture of this 84/85 setup?

Originally Posted by Brian Carlton (Post 2920553)

You save a bit of time if you cutoff the old belts. But, even you won't be able to get the entire job done in less than two hours. Unless you've developed some special procedure, the R&R of the fan takes at least 45 minutes itself. There is just no easy way to get the screws installed and tightened. It's maddening.

The a/c belt positively will not install without using the engine to get it into place. Wind the belt onto the pulleys as tight as you can get it and then bump the starter to seat the belt. Then you get to fight with the a/c tensioner...............

Originally Posted by panZZer (Post 2920753)

I cut the compressor belt--amn thing was leeching power/mileage anyway.

I was thinking of a new setup lastnite--with the Sanden compressor in the stock PS pump location, And a GM PS pump-with the remote resivor--- down where the radial compressor is now.

Originally Posted by Brian Carlton (Post 2920441)

No surprise.

Like most of what you post, this is complete BS.

Originally Posted by pawoSD (Post 2920850)

None of our diesels have an A/C belt in the way, which helps a bit, and yes, it does only take me about half an hour. How long does it take to loosen 6 bolts/nuts on the P/S pump/alt and slip a few belts on and off? If you are slower thats your own problem I suppose. ;)