A Guide to Accessory Drive Belts for the 1959 Studebaker 4E1 Truck
Keep your classic Studebaker's engine charging and cool by choosing the right replacement accessory drive belt.
- A modern aftermarket belt from Gates or Continental is a significant reliability upgrade over any New Old Stock (NOS) part.
- A squealing noise is the first warning sign of a failing belt; inspect it immediately to prevent being stranded.
- A broken belt will cause the engine to overheat and the battery to stop charging, making the truck undrivable.
- Replacement is a simple DIY task that requires only basic tools and knowledge of how to properly tension the belt.
Is Your Studebaker's Belt Trying to Tell You Something?
A failing V-belt on a classic truck like the 4E1 provides clear warning signs. Because it runs critical components, you should address these symptoms immediately to avoid being stranded or causing engine damage from overheating.
- Squealing Noises: The most common symptom is a high-pitched squeal, especially when you first start the engine or accelerate. This is caused by the belt slipping on the pulleys due to wear, incorrect tension, or contamination from oil or coolant.
- Visible Wear and Damage: A quick visual inspection can tell you a lot. Look for cracks, fraying, missing chunks, or a shiny, glazed surface on the sides of the belt. Old rubber becomes brittle with age and is a sure sign that replacement is needed.
- Charging or Overheating Issues: If the belt is slipping, it cannot turn the generator fast enough to charge the battery. You might notice the "GEN" light on your dashboard glowing or your headlights may appear dim. Similarly, a slipping or broken belt will cause the engine temperature to rise quickly because the water pump is no longer turning.
Choosing the Right Aftermarket Belt: OEM vs. Aftermarket
For a vintage truck, the choice is simple. Original Studebaker-branded belts are no longer made. While you might find a "New Old Stock" (NOS) belt online, a 65-year-old piece of rubber is not a reliable part. Rubber degrades over time, becoming brittle and prone to failure, regardless of whether it has been used.
A new aftermarket belt from a reputable brand is a significant upgrade in durability and reliability for your Studebaker 4E1. Modern belts are made with superior rubber compounds that are far more resistant to heat, oil, and cracking than the originals.
Available Brands: Gates vs. Continental
Both Gates and Continental are well-respected manufacturers that produce high-quality V-belts suitable for your classic Studebaker. In classic car communities, both are considered reliable choices, and you can install either with confidence. Often, the choice comes down to price or availability. There is no significant performance difference between them for this application.
| Part | Price Range |
|---|---|
| New Aftermarket Accessory Drive Belt | $7.35 - $39.59 |
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Is it hard to replace the accessory drive belt myself?
No, this is a very easy job for a DIYer on a 1959 Studebaker. The process involves loosening the mounting bolts on the generator, pivoting it to create slack, swapping the old belt for the new one, and then applying proper tension to the belt while tightening the generator bolts. It requires only basic hand tools.
How do I know if the new belt has the right tension?
Proper tension is critical. If it's too tight, it can damage the bearings in your generator or water pump. If it's too loose, it will slip and squeal. A common rule of thumb is that at the longest point between pulleys, you should be able to twist the belt about 90 degrees (a quarter turn) with your fingers.
Why is my new belt squealing?
The most common reason for a new belt to squeal is incorrect tension; it's probably too loose. It could also be caused by oil or coolant residue on the pulleys. Always clean the pulleys before installing a new belt. Worn or misaligned pulleys can also cause noise.
Are there any recalls for the accessory drive belt on my truck?
No. There are no recalls or Technical Service Bulletins (TSBs) for this part on a 1959 Studebaker. The vehicle predates the modern NHTSA recall system, and any issues you encounter will be due to normal wear and tear on this simple mechanical system.
Technical Specifications
The 1959 Studebaker 4E1 uses a V-belt system, not a modern serpentine belt. The key specifications are the belt's top width and its outside circumference. These dimensions must be matched precisely for the belt to function correctly. Depending on the engine (6-cylinder or V8), there may be one or more belts.
We Have This Part in Stock
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.