2016 5.7 Hemi Belt Diagram for Engine Maintenance and Repairs

If you’re working on a 2016 5.7 Hemi engine, understanding the belt system and its diagram is a must for maintenance and repairs. The serpentine belt, along with the timing belt, plays a critical role in the engine’s operation, driving various components such as the alternator, power steering pump, and air conditioning compressor. Knowing how these belts are routed ensures smooth engine performance and prevents costly repairs due to belt failure.
The 2016 5.7 Hemi engine is equipped with a single serpentine belt that runs around several pulleys. A clear understanding of the belt routing diagram helps avoid mistakes when replacing or adjusting the belts. The diagram shows the proper path the belt takes around the pulleys, ensuring each component gets power. Additionally, the tensioner pulley keeps the belt tight and in place to prevent slipping or excessive wear.
Referencing the belt diagram during maintenance is straightforward. The diagram includes all necessary components–such as the idler pulley, tensioner, and drive components–arranged to simplify the replacement or adjustment process. Be sure to follow the specific tensioning requirements outlined for the 5.7 Hemi engine, as improper tension can lead to premature wear or failure of the belt system.
When replacing the serpentine or timing belt, check the diagram for the correct installation sequence, especially the direction the belt should face. Even small misalignments can cause issues. If you’re unsure, the belt diagram will always serve as a reference to ensure the system works efficiently.
2016 5.7 HEMI Belt Diagram

The 2016 5.7 HEMI engine uses a serpentine belt to drive several key components, including the alternator, power steering pump, water pump, and air conditioning compressor. A proper understanding of the belt routing can help with maintenance and repairs.
To properly install or replace the serpentine belt, start by locating the tensioner pulley, which is used to adjust the belt’s tension. Use a ratchet or serpentine belt tool to rotate the tensioner and relieve tension before removing the old belt. Carefully inspect the belt for wear, cracks, or damage before installation.
The routing follows a specific pattern: the belt starts at the crankshaft pulley, runs over the AC compressor, alternator, and power steering pump, and ends back at the tensioner pulley. The water pump is typically driven by the belt too, so ensure the belt is aligned with the water pump pulley properly.
Double-check the belt’s alignment after installation. A misaligned belt can cause unnecessary wear and damage to components over time. Always consult the owner’s manual for the exact routing and belt specifications.
If you’re experiencing issues with the belt slipping or making noise, check the tensioner for proper function. A failing tensioner can cause improper belt tension, leading to performance issues and premature belt wear.
For long-term reliability, replace the serpentine belt at the manufacturer’s recommended interval. Regular maintenance will help prevent more costly repairs down the line.
How to Read the 2016 5.7 HEMI Belt Diagram for Correct Installation
The 2016 5.7 HEMI engine uses a serpentine belt system to power multiple accessories, including the alternator, water pump, and power steering pump. To ensure proper installation, follow the belt diagram carefully.
First, identify the routing direction. The diagram will show the path of the belt, typically looping around the crankshaft pulley, alternator, tensioner, and other components in a continuous loop. Pay attention to any arrows or labels indicating the direction the belt should follow.
Next, locate the tensioner pulley on the diagram. It plays a critical role in maintaining proper tension. The belt diagram will show which way to move the tensioner to release pressure and allow the belt to be installed or removed. This step ensures the belt is tight enough to operate without slipping but not too tight to cause undue stress on the system.
Carefully match the diagram with the physical components under the hood. Compare the position of each pulley to the diagram to ensure the belt routing is accurate. If your engine has additional components, such as an air conditioning compressor, verify its placement in the diagram, and double-check that the belt runs around it correctly.
After installing the belt, manually rotate the engine a few times to ensure the belt aligns correctly and is free from interference. Check for any slack or misalignment, as this can lead to premature wear or failure of the belt.
Lastly, always double-check the belt tension after installation. The belt should not have excessive slack, and it should move smoothly across the pulleys. Use a tension gauge if needed to confirm proper tension, as specified in the vehicle’s service manual.
Common Issues with the 2016 5.7 HEMI Belt Setup and How to Fix Them
The 2016 5.7 HEMI belt system is a reliable setup, but issues can arise over time. One common problem is belt squeal. If you hear a high-pitched noise coming from the engine, it’s often due to a worn or loose serpentine belt. Check the belt tensioner and inspect the belt for cracks or fraying. Replace the belt if any signs of damage are present. If the belt is intact, adjust the tensioner to ensure proper tension.
Another issue is premature wear of the tensioner pulley. A faulty pulley can cause excessive belt wear, leading to poor engine performance. If the pulley feels loose or makes noise when rotated by hand, it’s time to replace it. Make sure to choose a quality OEM replacement to avoid recurring problems.
Problems with the alternator or power steering pulleys can also affect the belt system. If any of these components become misaligned or malfunction, they can cause the belt to slip or wear unevenly. Inspect each pulley for alignment, ensuring they spin freely without wobbling. If alignment issues are found, correct them immediately to avoid further damage.
Lastly, excessive vibration in the engine can indicate issues with the harmonic balancer. A worn-out or damaged balancer can cause the belt system to become misaligned, leading to belt wear and potential failure. If you notice vibrations, inspect the harmonic balancer for cracks or signs of damage and replace it if necessary.
Step-by-Step Guide to Replacing the Serpentine Belt on a 2016 5.7 HEMI Engine
To replace the serpentine belt on your 2016 5.7 HEMI engine, follow these precise steps:
- Gather necessary tools and parts: You will need a new serpentine belt, a 3/8-inch drive ratchet, a belt tensioner tool (or a suitable substitute), and possibly a belt routing diagram.
- Locate the serpentine belt tensioner: The tensioner is usually found near the front of the engine. It’s a pulley that keeps the belt tight and can be moved with a ratchet or a belt tensioner tool.
- Release the tension on the belt: Insert the ratchet into the tensioner pulley bolt and rotate it counterclockwise. This will relieve tension, allowing the belt to be removed easily.
- Remove the old belt: Once the tension is released, carefully slip the belt off the pulleys. Take note of how the belt is routed around the various pulleys, or use the belt routing diagram if needed.
- Inspect the components: Before installing the new belt, check the condition of all pulleys, the tensioner, and the idler pulleys. If any pulleys feel rough or show signs of wear, replace them at this stage.
- Install the new serpentine belt: Route the new belt over the pulleys in the same pattern as the old one. Start by positioning the belt over the largest pulleys and work your way to the smaller ones.
- Apply tension: Use the ratchet or tensioner tool to rotate the tensioner back into place and apply the appropriate tension to the belt. Double-check that the belt is seated properly on all pulleys.
- Verify installation: Ensure the belt is routed correctly and there is no slack. Start the engine and listen for any unusual noises that may indicate improper installation.
After completing these steps, your serpentine belt should be successfully replaced, and your 2016 5.7 HEMI engine will run smoothly again.