Accessory Drive Belt Guide for the 1959 Studebaker 4E2D Truck
Keep your classic Studebaker's engine cool and its battery charged with the right V-belt.
- Your 1959 Studebaker 4E2D uses a V-belt system; a broken belt will immediately stop your water pump and generator.
- Visually inspect your belts for cracks and fraying. A loud squeal on startup is a clear warning sign of a worn or loose belt.
- New OEM belts are not available; aftermarket brands like Gates and Continental are both reliable, high-quality choices.
- Getting the correct belt length for your V-8 engine is the most critical step. Measure the old belt if you are unsure.
Signs of a Failing Accessory Drive Belt
On a classic truck like your Studebaker 4E2D, the drive belts give clear warnings when they are wearing out. Ignoring these signs can leave you stranded with an overheated engine or a dead battery. Be aware of the following symptoms:
- Squealing Noises: A loud, high-pitched squeal when you start the engine or accelerate is a classic sign of a loose or worn-out belt that is slipping on the pulleys.
- Visible Damage: You should inspect your belts regularly. Look for cracks, frayed edges, missing pieces of rubber, or a shiny, smooth surface on the sides of the belt. This shiny look is called 'glazing' and means the rubber has hardened and can't grip the pulleys correctly.
- Accessory Problems: If your 'GEN' or 'AMP' light comes on, or if you notice the gauge showing a discharge, it could mean the belt driving the generator is broken or slipping. If your engine temperature starts to climb quickly, the belt turning the water pump has likely failed.
Choosing the Right Aftermarket Belt
Original, factory-new Studebaker belts are no longer produced. For a new replacement, you will be buying an aftermarket part. Fortunately, modern aftermarket brands offer high-quality V-belts that are reliable for classic vehicles. For your 1959 4E2D, the most important factor is getting the correct size, not necessarily picking one major brand over another.
Brand Reputations: Continental vs. Gates
| Brand | Assessment |
|---|---|
| Continental | A well-regarded brand that is known for making quiet belts that can sometimes solve squealing issues on older vehicles. They are considered a high-quality choice by many mechanics. |
| Gates | Considered a top-tier supplier with a long history of making durable belts and hoses. Many classic truck owners use them with confidence and have good long-term results. |
Both Continental and Gates are excellent choices. Forum discussions and even direct comparisons show that both brands produce quality V-belts of very similar construction. The biggest challenge is ensuring you order the correct length and width for your specific V-8 engine configuration. Always measure your old belt or use a vehicle-specific parts catalog to confirm the part number before ordering.
Pro Tip: Check Your Pulleys. When you replace the belt, take a moment to inspect the pulleys on the generator and water pump. Make sure they are clean and free of oil or grease. Spin them by hand to ensure they turn freely without wobbling or making noise. A damaged pulley can destroy a new belt quickly.
Estimated Replacement Costs
The cost for a new aftermarket accessory drive belt for your Studebaker is very reasonable. The main cost difference will be between standard and premium versions from the available brands.
| Part Type | Estimated Cost |
|---|---|
| New Aftermarket Accessory Drive Belt | $7.35 - $33.48 |
| Shop Labor | $50 - $100 |
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Can I replace the accessory drive belt myself?
Yes, this is a very DIY-friendly job on a 1959 Studebaker truck. The process involves loosening the bolts on the generator, pushing it to release tension on the belt, swapping the old belt for the new one, and then re-tensioning the system. No special tools are typically needed beyond a set of wrenches.
How do I get the right tension on the new belt?
Proper tension is critical. If the belt is too tight, it can cause damage to the bearings in your generator or water pump. If it's too loose, it will slip and squeal. A good rule of thumb is to tighten it so you can twist the belt about 90 degrees (a quarter turn) with your fingers at the longest point between two pulleys.
Are there any recalls or known issues?
There are no active recalls or technical service bulletins (TSBs) from the NHTSA for accessory drive belts on the 1959 Studebaker 4E2D. The most common issue reported by owners of similar classic vehicles is ordering the wrong length belt, so always double-check your part number.
Should I replace all the belts at once?
If your truck has more than one belt and you are replacing one due to age or cracking, it is good practice to replace them all at the same time. The belts are inexpensive, and this saves you from having to do the job again in the near future when another old belt fails.
Technical Specifications
The accessory drive system uses V-belts, not a modern serpentine belt. The critical specifications are the belt's top width and its outside circumference (length). These must be matched precisely to the 1959 Studebaker 4E2D's V-8 engine and pulley configuration.
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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.