Serpentine belt keeps breaking

Hi,

The idea that the belt is breaking as you mentioned indicates something is out of alignment or one of the belt-driven accessories is locked up or placing a very heavy load on the belt. When you first install the belt, is there any squealing when the engine is running? Also, have you checked to make sure the belt is fully installed on the pullies and they are all aligned?

I attached a pic below and identified the belt tensioner. Confirm that it is making the belt tight enough. If it is and the pullies are aligned, remove the belt and turn each of the belt driven accessories to see if one is locked up or loose due to bearing failure.

Let me know what you find or if you have other questions.

Take care,

Joe

Hi,

That sounds like a plan. Also, make sure they are all aligned. Let me know what you find or if you have other questions.

Take care,
Joe

Hi,

Were you able to adjust the alternator? If it isn't aligned properly, it will damage the belt.
Also, if the water pump shaft is bent, it will need to be replaced.

I don't know if you need them, but here are the directions specific to your vehicle for replacing the water pump. The attached pics correlate with the directions.

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1999 Dodge or Ram Truck Grand Caravan FWD V6-3.8L VIN L
Water Pump Replacement
Vehicle Engine, Cooling and Exhaust Engine Water Pump Service and Repair Procedures Water Pump Replacement
WATER PUMP REPLACEMENT
REMOVAL
1. Drain Cooling System.
2. Remove accessory drive belt.
3. Remove right front lower fender shield.
4. Remove water pump pulley bolts and remove pulley.

Water Pump-3.3/3,8L Engines

pic 1

5. Remove water pump mounting screws. Remove water pump.
6. Remove and discard O-ring seal.
7. Clean O-ring groove and O-ring surfaces on pump and chain case cover. Take care not to scratch or gouge sealing surface.

INSTALLATION

Water Pump Body

pic 2

1. Install new O-ring into groove.
2. Install water pump to chain case cover. Tighten screws to 12 Nm (105 inch lbs.).
3. Rotate pump by hand to check for freedom of movement.
4. Position pulley on pump. Install screws and tighten to 30 Nm (250 inch lbs.).
5. Install accessory drive belt.
6. Install right front lower fender shield.
7. Refill Cooling System.

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Here is a link also. It shows in general and a bit more in-depth to follow.

https://www.2carpros.com/articles/water-pump-replacement

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Let me know if this helps or if you have other questions.

Take care,
Joe