Dodge Caravan serpentine belt slipping off

I own a 2000 Dodge Caraven and have had the serpentine belt slip off
twice. The belt has not been damaged and the mechanics at a very
reliable shop have replaced it. The mechanic told me that this is a
common problem with Caravans but that they have not seen anything come
from Dodge with regard to the problem. Has anyone else had a similar
issue and is there a good solution? I feel like I'm driving a time
bomb waiting to go off.

 

i would check belt tensioner possible worn bearing.belt is misaligned
causing it to walk off

 

This is usually caused by a bad tensioner. Also check to make sure the
serpentine belt lower splash shield is in place.

 

They haven't looked very hard... there's a TSB that addresses
the problem.
Also, Gates sells a belt with groves on both sides and matching
idler pulley.

 

Had the same problem (unfortunately on christmas eve). Took it to
Goodyear after reading posts on Chrysler forums. They installed a new
serpentine belt (their GATORback belt which is slightly smaller
then stock) and a new tensioner. So far no problems in 8 months and i
live in a wet climate.

 

make sure the wiper module drain tube is in place on the right side water
can pour out the drain and on the belt allowing it fling off

 

I own a 2000 caravan as well and this has been a problem for me
also....like someone else said there is a tsb ,that explains the fix
but all i did was get disc, (not sure of the part number but it came
from the dealer) that bolts onto the side of the tensioner and stops
the belt from being able to slide off...worked for years now...ill
never buy another chrysler product again...what a horseshit design!
"Belt/pulley design on this van is flawed and a major safety hazard,
Chrysler should recall" but they refuse...also make sure you get a
dealer belt , any other squeaks! wish i knew the part number for the
disc..good luck!


Mike

 

Does anyone know what the fix is the tsb explains ? I have a friend that
has a 2000 Caravan and it comes off normally when it rains. I haven't seen
it to know if the tensioner is the problem...

thanks,
nick

 

The TSB gives part numbers for and instructs the installation of
a large stamped (for lack of a better description) washer on one
of the idler pulleys. The part essentially acts as a fence to
keep the belt from moving off of the idler pulley.
Naturally, you need to verify that the tensioner is functioning
properly and inspect and correct the drain pipes from the
windshield wiper module to be sure they are not draining water on
top of the belt(s).
When you get the parts from the dealership, check that the bolt
they're selling you actually fits thru the stamped washer, last
one I got the bolt was wrong even though the part number was
right. Mis-boxed perhaps?

The fix works.