by hskrsolara » Sun May 22, 2011 10:53 am
So, did a little research. auto parts store guys were absolutely no help, so I did some calculating of my own.
The belt I had on with the 5.5 psi (2.9" diameter) was the Goodyear Gatorback 6pk2240 (88.25" inside length). I believe this was the preferred length posted often on SG back in the day. When I took off the belt/pulley, I noticed quite a bit of belt dust in the idler assembly and pulley...slippage perhaps? The belt is in great shape, maybe it was just a touch too long.
The 6.5 lb pulley is 2.7" diameter. The difference in circumference of the pulleys is 0.628". So, it would be safe to assume I need a belt that is as least 0.628" shorter than the old, correct? Even though, I know the belt only contacts half of the pulley, so maybe one could argue that I only need a belt that is .314" shorter than the old one...
The next size smaller gatorback is the 6pk2220, which is 87.5" long (.75" shorter than the 5.5psi belt). Should be safe to go with this one, right? Or, I could drop 2 sizes and go with the 6pk2215 which is 87.25" long. (a full 1" shorter than the 5.5psi belt) Could this put too much strain on the auto tensioner?
I only want to install this belt once, I forgot how much of a PITA it was to switch belts and would like to get it right the first time. I absolutely do not want any slippage when we dyno or the next time I race my buddies modded G8 or modded Mustang GT. Any advice?
Should I just can the gatorback and look at dayco? I thought that the gatorbacks were supposed to be better...but havent bought a new belt in a while. Sounds like the LS1/LS2 guys like the gates belts, the SVT guys like the gatorbacks...
99 DWP SEV6 5spd 6.5psi+Meth, Tein+Tokico, EricSol+Brembos+EBC, OBX Headers+OBX 3" Exhaust, Supra MAF & 330cc, Spec 2+, Fidanza, TRD lip kit, Injen+Ext, Optima Red, Infinity 60.5+693.7i, 2 Kappa Perfect 12 VQ's+iPod+JVC DVD...etc