Choosing the Right Accessory Drive Belt for Your 1959-1968 Saab 95
The most important step is knowing whether your classic Saab has a V4 or a two-stroke engine.
- You must identify if your Saab 95 has the V4 or two-stroke engine to order the correct belt.
- High-quality aftermarket brands like Gates and Continental are excellent choices for this vehicle.
- Squealing noises are the first and most common sign that your belt needs to be inspected or replaced.
- Proper belt tension is critical; too loose and it will slip, too tight and it can damage other components.
Engine Type is Everything
Before you buy a new accessory drive belt for your 1959-1968 Saab 95, you must know which engine you have. Over its life, the 95 used two very different engines, and they do not share the same belt. Ordering the wrong one is the most common mistake.
- Saab Two-Stroke Engine (1959-1967): An inline three-cylinder engine. These are less common today and have a very distinct, simple look.
- Ford Taunus V4 Engine (1967-1968): Starting in 1967, Saab began using a V4 engine sourced from Ford. This engine looks more like a modern car engine, with two cylinder banks in a 'V' shape.
Pro Tip: If you are unsure, look at your engine. A V4 will have spark plug wires going to two different sides of the engine block in a V-formation. A two-stroke is a simple inline block. A quick search for images of each engine type will make the difference clear.
Symptoms of a Failing Drive Belt
A worn-out V-belt will give you clear warnings before it breaks. Ignoring them will lead to a breakdown.
- Squealing Noises: A high-pitched squeal, especially when you start the car or rev the engine, is the classic sign of a loose or worn belt that is slipping on the pulleys.
- Visible Damage: Look at the belt. If you see deep cracks, fraying, chunks missing, or a shiny, glazed surface, it's time for a replacement.
- Battery or Temperature Warning Light: If the belt is slipping badly or breaks, the generator will stop charging the battery, likely turning on a warning light. On V4 models, the water pump will also stop, causing the engine temperature to rise quickly.
Choosing the Right Aftermarket Belt
For a vehicle of this age, original "Saab" belts are no longer made. However, high-quality aftermarket brands are readily available and offer excellent performance. The key is buying from a reputable manufacturer.
Brand Quality Tiers
Based on general mechanic experience and forum discussions, here’s how the available brands stack up:
- Top Tier (Excellent Quality): Continental and Gates are widely trusted in the automotive world. Continental is often an original equipment manufacturer for many European cars. Gates has a strong reputation for durability and reliability. You cannot go wrong choosing a belt from either of these brands.
- Mid-Grade (Good Quality): Dayco is a well-known aftermarket brand that produces reliable belts. While some users in forums report mixed long-term results compared to Gates or Continental, they are a perfectly suitable and budget-friendly choice for this classic application.
No Recalls or Common Issues Found
Searches for official recalls or Technical Service Bulletins (TSBs) from the NHTSA regarding the accessory drive belt for the 1959-1968 Saab 95 did not return any results. Problems with this part are typically due to normal age-related wear and tear or improper tension.
Estimated Replacement Costs
The cost for a new aftermarket accessory drive belt is very low. Labor costs are also minimal if you have a shop perform the work, as it is a simple job on these cars.
| Part/Service | Estimated Cost |
|---|---|
| New Aftermarket Belt | $7 - $29 |
| Shop Labor | $50 - $100 |
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I replace the accessory drive belt myself?
Yes, this is a very DIY-friendly job for those with basic tools and mechanical knowledge. The process involves loosening the bolts on the generator/alternator to create slack, removing the old belt, fitting the new one, and then tensioning the new belt by pulling the generator/alternator back before tightening the bolts. It typically takes less than an hour.
How do I know if the new belt is tight enough?
The general rule of thumb for a V-belt is that at the longest point between pulleys, you should be able to twist the belt about a quarter turn (90 degrees) with your fingers, and it should deflect about half an inch under firm thumb pressure. An overly tight belt can damage the bearings in the water pump and generator, while a loose belt will slip and squeal.
Is a modern serpentine belt the same as this V-belt?
No. The 1959-1968 Saab 95 uses an older style V-belt, which is thick and has a V-shape profile. Modern cars use a wide, flat, ribbed serpentine belt. Search results for "Saab 95 serpentine belt" almost always refer to the much newer 1999-2011 Saab 9-5 model, which is a completely different vehicle.
Should I replace any other parts at the same time?
On a modern car, you would replace tensioners and pulleys. However, the Saab 95's system is much simpler. While the belt is off, it is a good idea to spin the generator and water pump pulleys by hand. They should spin smoothly and quietly. If you feel any roughness or hear grinding, that part's bearing may be wearing out.
Technical Specifications
The critical specification is the correct length and V-profile for your specific engine (Ford Taunus V4 or Saab two-stroke). Always verify fitment based on your engine type, not just the year of the car.
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.