Dayco has recently launched a line of heavy-duty serpentine belt kits featuring Dayco’s exclusive two-piece tensioner engineered with an outer and inner tensioner that cuts installation time by 50% compared to competitive products. Currently available to order for customers in the U.S. and Canada, there are six part numbers that cover approximately 650,000 VIO. These kits are specifically designed for class 8 trucks with DD13, DD15 or DD16 engines. 

In an effort to optimize inventory for distributors and ensure fleet technicians have all the parts needed for a complete belt repair, Dayco’s heavy-duty serpentine belt kits include a two-piece tensioner, two pulleys and two serpentine belts in the appropriate length and width. The specially designed tensioner cuts installation time in half and makes belt placement easier, the company stated. With the traditional one-piece tensioners originally designed for these engines, techs are required to bend an 8-rib belt sideways through a very narrow opening during replacement, which can lead to belt issues if not done carefully. 

The tensioner and its pulley counterpart are machined from high strength steel to provide excellent wear resistance under harsh environments. It also features Dayco’s patented flat spring technology and dual pressed-in pulley bearings to provide long bearing life and protection against shock loads. And the two heavy-duty poly-V serpentine belts included in the kit are designed to run cooler, reduce rib cracking and provide increased flexibility, the company noted.