With just a few simple tools we change the serpentine belt on our 2012 Subaru Outback 3.6R Limited. The process will be the same for Subaru Legacy 3.6 engine models.
Our replacement serpentine belt for the Subaru Outback 3.6 (listed below) was less than $20 and by doing the labor ourself we saved around $100.
The key to success is routing the new belt around all the ribbed pulleys, starting at the bottom crank pulley, and working up. Then finish by slipping the last loop of the serpentine belt over the smooth Idler pulley while leaning on the ratchet to release tension giving just enough slack to pull the new tighter belt into position.
Parts used:
• ContiTech (Continental) Serpentine Belt | PK060640
https://amzn.to/2R0hNdC
Tools used:
• Craftsman 3/8″ drive long ratchet
• 14mm socket
• Slotted Screwdriver (to remove clips holding the air intake)
Alternate tools:
• A long 3/8″ breaker bar would work nice (I just ordered this 15” breaker bar)
https://amzn.to/2RnfJMs
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This is the correct way to change the belt, though putting it back on a worn pulley is a bad idea and should have been better explained. Upon my 2010 3.6r belt coming off, also realized my idler pulley bearing was completely destroyed too and I had to replace it before the belt could be put back on. So look for loose or wobbly pulleys before putting the new belt on. Replace them even if there is only a little play in the pulley bearing. Just like checking skateboard wheels…it won't roll if the bearings are loose or worn out. One 14mm bolt holds the pulley, a very easy fix. But thank you for the belt change video, it was useful and I'm back on the road without a mechanics bill.
Great video, thanks! I'm only semi- mechanically inclined, but this was well within my skill set.
Sweet! Just replaced my cracked, dried-out belt with little trouble.
I found it helpful to draw a simple diagram of the old belt's placement as it was tricky to get everything in a photo.
Thank you. You saved my weekend vacation. Serpentine belt Grenaded when the idler pulley seized. Your video saved the day. An hour later we were up and running again after a trip to the auto parts store and some roadside maintenance.
I replaced the serpentine belt and idler pulley then there was a squeal, sprayed a little water on pulley, squeak disappears so i knew it was a belt issue. Maybe the pulleys are misaligned. Unlikely, maybe the idler pulley is a bad part. Unlikely. What was causing the squeal? The first belt i bought was a dayco belt, the second was an oem belt. That was the difference the oem belt instead of pure rubber on the ribs it looks like it is covered with a fabric type material. Oem belt, no more squeal. visibly you can see the difference.
Is this the equivalent of a timing belt
I've been putting that cover on the wrong way this whole time…Great video! <3