Accessory Drive Belt Guide for 1978-1987 Subaru Brat
Keep your classic Brat running smoothly by understanding its simple but essential drive belts.
- Your Brat uses simple V-belts, not a modern serpentine belt. You may have more than one.
- Squealing is the number one sign of a problem; inspect the belt's condition and tension immediately.
- Replacement is a simple DIY job for most owners, requiring only basic tools.
- Quality aftermarket brands like Gates, Dayco, and Continental are the standard, reliable choice as OEM parts are unavailable.
Understanding Your Brat's Belts
The 1978-1987 Subaru Brat uses a straightforward V-belt system. Unlike modern cars with a single serpentine belt, your Brat likely has at least one belt for the alternator and water pump, and additional belts if it's equipped with A/C or power steering. These belts are critical; if the alternator belt breaks, your battery will stop charging, and the engine may overheat if it also drives the water pump. Regular inspection is key to avoiding a breakdown.
Symptoms of a Failing Accessory Drive Belt
A failing belt will almost always give you a warning sign. Being able to recognize these signs can save you from being stranded.
- Squealing Noises: This is the most common symptom. A high-pitched squeal, especially when you start the engine or during sharp turns, means the belt is slipping. This can be caused by wear, fluid contamination, or improper tension.
- Visible Wear and Tear: Look at the belts. If you see cracks, fraying, glazing (a shiny surface), or missing chunks of rubber, the belt is at the end of its life and needs immediate replacement.
- Electrical Issues or Dimming Lights: Flickering headlights or a battery warning light on your dash can indicate the alternator isn't spinning fast enough because of a slipping belt.
- Overheating Engine: If the belt driving the water pump fails, the engine's coolant will not circulate, leading to rapid overheating. This is a critical situation that can cause severe engine damage.
Don't Ignore the Squeal
A squealing belt isn't just annoying; it's a direct warning that the belt is failing to grip the pulleys correctly. While it might just need a tension adjustment, it often means the belt is worn out and ready to be replaced.
Choosing the Right Aftermarket Belt
For a vintage vehicle like the Subaru Brat, finding original equipment (OEM) belts is highly unlikely. Fortunately, high-quality aftermarket belts are readily available and are the standard replacement for these trucks. Brands like Gates, Dayco, and Continental are well-regarded manufacturers that often supply parts to automakers directly. For your Brat, a standard replacement V-belt from any of these brands will provide reliable performance. There is no need to seek out expensive or specialized "high-performance" belts for a stock engine.
Brand Quality Tiers
- Trusted Aftermarket (Recommended): Gates, Dayco, and Continental are all excellent choices. Forum discussions among Subaru and other car enthusiasts frequently mention these brands as reliable options. Gates is often cited as a top-tier choice for belts and hoses.
- OEM: Genuine Subaru belts for this era are likely discontinued or extremely difficult to find. Aftermarket belts from reputable brands are the practical and reliable choice.
Pro Tip: Replace and Tension Correctly
When you replace a belt, proper tension is crucial. A belt that is too loose will slip and squeal, while a belt that is too tight can cause premature wear on the bearings of the alternator, water pump, or other accessories. Generally, there should be about ½ inch of give when you press on the longest span of the belt.
Accessory Drive Belt Cost for 1978-1987 Subaru Brat
| Part Type | Price Range |
|---|---|
| New Aftermarket Belt | $2.56 - $38.83 |
| Shop Labor for Replacement | $50 - $150 |
Frequently Asked Questions
How many belts does my Subaru Brat have?
It depends on the options. All models will have at least one belt for the alternator and water pump. Models with factory air conditioning and/or power steering will have additional belts to run those accessories.
Is this a difficult part to replace myself?
For most DIY mechanics, this is a relatively easy job. Access is generally good on the Brat's EA81 engine. It involves loosening the alternator or accessory, removing the old belt, fitting the new one, and re-tensioning the system. You'll typically need basic hand tools like sockets and wrenches.
My new belt is squealing. What did I do wrong?
The most common reason for a new belt to squeal is improper tension. It's either too loose or, less commonly, too tight. It's also possible that oil or another fluid has contaminated the pulleys. Make sure the pulleys are clean and re-check the belt tension after a few minutes of running the engine.
Are there any recalls for the drive belts on my Brat?
No, searches of the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) database did not find any recalls or widespread safety issues related to the accessory drive belts for the 1978-1987 Subaru Brat.
Technical Specifications
OEM Part Numbers: 809110370
The 1978-1987 Subaru Brat uses a V-belt system. The exact size and number of belts depend on the model year and whether the vehicle is equipped with accessories like air conditioning or power steering. The most common engine is the EA81.
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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.