Fan/Accessory belts for Cummins 6BTA

[flyboyjack]

I'm working up a departure/cruise box of expendable items to have on board while underway. Anyone out there with a 1998 or similar vintage Cummins BTA, (370HP), know what belts are used and where to get them? There is a massive cover on the motor and I don't want to remove it until necessary.

flyboyjack

[jleonard]

The best place to get belts is the Cummins distributor or dealer. Their parts are usully a good bargain (price plus quality).
Give them your engine serial number and they can look it up.
The front cover is a PIA. I removed mine before the engine ever saw the boat when I did my repower.
With the cover in the way you cannot easily inspect the front end components.

[Pitou]

Jay has given you good advice for Cummins parts.

When the day does come and you need to remove that cover ... my advice is to trash it! On my 370 Albin had removed it at time of engine install. I was happy not to see it on the new boat as well.

[flyboyjack]

Thanks guys,.. removal of the cover was my next order of business. I was wondering if anyone else had done it. It's outta here!!

flyboyjack

[Pitou]

Here's my CYA: just remember flyboy, you are removing a safety shield and it is there for the protection of you and others. Proceed at your own risk!

Cheers!

[jleonard]

Unless there is a reason to ever be in front of the engine, then the cover really doesn't do much.
IF you feel the need to keep the cover in place for protection, then you can remove the cover, cut out the front surface and replace with lexan screwed in place. This will give protection plus allow you to visually inspect the front of the engine, which I consider critical to be able to monitor wat is going on.

[flyboyjack]

Thanks again. Seems like my whole life I've done things at my own peril!! Oh well. I guess if I stick my hand and/or face into the front of the motor will she's running, I probably shouldn't be a boat owner/operator anyway! I do seriously thank you for the advice but I like to visually check my belts, and front of the motor frequently and as you know it's a real struggle/hassle to get to see what's behind the shield.

flyboyjack

[jleonard]

I like to visually check my belts, and front of the motor frequently

Make sure you keep an eye on that belt tensioner, it's a 6B weakpoint.