Accessory Drive Belt Guide for the 1955-1956 Studebaker E7
Keep your classic Studebaker's generator charging and engine cool with the correct, modern V-belts.
- Your 1955-56 Studebaker E7 uses multiple V-belts, not a single serpentine belt.
- Always choose new aftermarket belts from brands like Gates or Continental; avoid New Old Stock (NOS) rubber parts as they degrade with age.
- A broken belt will cause the engine to stop charging and likely overheat, so inspect your belts regularly for cracks and wear.
- Replacing the V-belts on this truck is a simple DIY task that requires only basic hand tools and knowledge.
Symptoms of a Failing Accessory Drive Belt
The V-belts on your Studebaker are durable, but they don't last forever. Rubber ages and wears out. A failed belt will leave you stranded, so it's important to recognize the warning signs of a belt that's about to fail.
- Squealing Sounds: A high-pitched squeal, especially when you start the engine or accelerate, is a classic sign of a loose or worn belt that is slipping on the pulleys.
- Visible Wear and Tear: Regularly inspect your belts. Look for cracks, fraying, glazing (a shiny or glossy appearance on the belt's sides), or missing chunks. Any of these signs mean the belt needs immediate replacement.
- Battery Light: If the belt driving the generator breaks, the battery will stop charging. You will likely see the generator or battery warning light illuminate on your dashboard.
- Engine Overheating: If the belt that powers the water pump and fan fails, your engine will quickly overheat. This can cause severe and expensive engine damage.
Choosing the Right Aftermarket Belt
For a vintage truck like the Studebaker E7, new aftermarket belts are the best and only logical choice. Here's why:
Avoid "New Old Stock" (NOS) Belts
You might find original Studebaker belts from the 1950s for sale, often called New Old Stock (NOS). Do not use them. Rubber degrades significantly over time, even when stored. A 70-year-old belt is brittle and unreliable, no matter how perfect it looks in the package.
Modern aftermarket belts from reputable brands are made with superior materials and construction compared to what was available in the 1950s. They offer better heat resistance and a longer service life.
Brand Quality: Gates vs. Continental
Both Gates and Continental are top-tier, highly respected brands in the automotive world, and you can't go wrong with either for your Studebaker. For the simple V-belt application on an E7, both brands provide excellent quality and durability. The most important factors are getting the correct length and width for your specific truck, as some models had different accessory configurations. Given the simple nature of the V-belt system, there is no significant performance difference between these two premium brands for this vehicle; choosing the more affordable option is perfectly acceptable.
Pro Tip: Check Your Pulleys
When replacing the belt, inspect the pulleys on the generator and water pump. Make sure they are clean, free of oil, and spin freely without wobbling. A misaligned or damaged pulley can destroy a new belt quickly.
Estimated Costs for Accessory Drive Belts (1955-1956 Studebaker E7)
| Part Type | Estimated Cost Range |
|---|---|
| New Aftermarket Belts (e.g., Gates, Continental) | $2.60 - $39.20 |
| Shop Labor for Installation | $50 - $100 |
Note: Your truck may require more than one belt. Prices are estimates and may vary based on supplier and location.
Frequently Asked Questions
How many belts does my Studebaker E7 need?
Most 1955-1956 E7 trucks use two separate V-belts: one for the generator and one for the fan/water pump. However, this can vary depending on the specific engine and whether it has options like air conditioning (which was rare). Always verify the number and size of the belts on your truck before ordering.
How do I know if the belt is tight enough?
Improper tension is a leading cause of belt failure. A common rule of thumb for V-belts is that you should have about a half-inch of deflection when you press firmly on the belt at its longest point between pulleys. If it moves more, it's too loose; if it moves less, it's too tight and can damage the bearings in your generator or water pump.
Are there any recalls for the accessory drive belt on my E7?
No. There are no active recalls or technical service bulletins (TSBs) in the modern NHTSA database for this part on a 1955-1956 Studebaker E7. Any such issues would have been handled with dealer service communications decades ago.
Is this a difficult job to do myself?
No, for most owners with basic hand tools, this is a very straightforward and easy job. It involves loosening the adjustment bolt on the generator or other accessory, slipping the old belt off, putting the new one on, and re-tensioning it.
Technical Specifications
System uses multiple V-belts. Belt size (length and width) is critical and varies based on engine and accessories. It is best to measure your old belts or use a reliable parts catalog to ensure you purchase the correct size.
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The information in this article is provided for general reference and educational purposes only. Vehicle specifications, procedures, and part compatibility can vary by production date, trim level, and region. Always consult your vehicle's factory service manual and verify part numbers before purchasing or performing repairs. Safety-critical components such as airbags, seat belts, and braking systems should be installed by a qualified professional.