2017 6.7 Cummins Serpentine Belt Routing Diagram and Installation Guide

If you’re dealing with a 2017 6.7 Cummins engine, understanding the serpentine belt layout is key to keeping your engine running smoothly. This belt drives multiple accessories like the alternator, power steering pump, and air conditioning compressor. A precise diagram ensures proper routing, minimizing wear and preventing potential damage to engine components.
The serpentine belt on the 6.7 Cummins is a single, continuous belt that loops around a series of pulleys. Knowing how to correctly route it helps avoid problems like belt slippage or misalignment. A quick glance at the diagram can guide you through the process, making maintenance or replacement simpler and quicker.
When replacing the serpentine belt, double-check its alignment and tension after installation. If you’re unsure of the routing, always refer to the official diagram for the correct path. Maintaining the right tension is equally important for preventing premature wear or belt failure, which could cause critical engine components to stop functioning.
2017 6.7 Cummins Serpentine Belt Diagram
To ensure your 2017 6.7 Cummins engine runs smoothly, a proper serpentine belt setup is crucial. Refer to the diagram for a step-by-step guide on how the serpentine belt should be routed around the pulleys. This diagram is specifically tailored for the 6.7L Cummins engine in the Dodge Ram 2500 and 3500 models.
The serpentine belt drives multiple components, including the alternator, power steering pump, AC compressor, water pump, and more. If the belt is misrouted, it could cause excessive wear, poor performance, or even engine damage. Follow the diagram carefully to avoid unnecessary complications.
Steps for Correct Serpentine Belt Routing
- Locate the tensioner pulley. It has a spring-loaded mechanism that adjusts belt tension.
- Start at the crankshaft pulley and follow the belt’s path as indicated in the diagram.
- Make sure the belt runs around the alternator, AC compressor, and other components in the exact order.
- Ensure the belt is tight enough to prevent slipping, but not so tight that it strains the tensioner.
Common Issues to Watch For

- Incorrect routing can lead to premature belt wear or failure.
- A loose or too tight belt can cause noise or damage to engine components.
- If the tensioner fails, it may not maintain proper belt tension, leading to belt slippage.
Always double-check the diagram before installation. If you’re uncertain, it’s wise to consult a professional mechanic for belt installation. Proper routing ensures efficient engine performance and prevents unnecessary repairs down the road.
Identifying Components in the 2017 6.7 Cummins Serpentine Belt System

The serpentine belt system in the 2017 6.7 Cummins engine includes several components that work together to power vital accessories. Start by identifying the main pulley, which drives the serpentine belt. This pulley connects to the crankshaft and ensures smooth rotation of the belt, powering various engine accessories.
Next, locate the tensioner. It maintains the proper tension on the serpentine belt, preventing it from slipping or becoming too tight. The tensioner pulley, attached to the tensioner arm, helps adjust the belt’s tightness, allowing for efficient power transmission.
You’ll also find the alternator pulley, which is responsible for charging the battery by converting mechanical energy into electrical power. The water pump pulley keeps coolant circulating through the engine, while the power steering pump pulley is essential for smooth steering performance.
To complete the system, the AC compressor pulley drives the air conditioning system, ensuring that the vehicle’s climate control functions properly. Each pulley is linked to the serpentine belt, which should be inspected regularly for wear and tear to ensure that all components operate smoothly and efficiently.
Recognizing these key parts will help with maintenance and troubleshooting when necessary. Regular inspections are vital to avoid potential damage and ensure each component continues to perform optimally.
Step-by-Step Guide to Replacing the Serpentine Belt on 2017 6.7 Cummins

First, make sure the engine is off and cooled down. Disconnect the negative terminal of the battery to prevent any electrical issues.
Locate the serpentine belt routing diagram on the engine bay. It’s usually found on a sticker or metal plate near the front of the engine. This will be crucial to ensure the belt is reinstalled correctly.
Use a 3/8-inch drive ratchet to release the tension from the serpentine belt tensioner. The tensioner is located near the bottom of the engine, below the alternator. Turn it counterclockwise to loosen the belt.
Once the tension is released, slide the belt off the pulleys. Take note of the belt’s path, as it will need to follow the same route when installed. You can either memorize or take a picture for reference.
Remove the old belt from the engine compartment. Inspect all pulleys and components for damage or wear. It’s a good time to check the tensioner, idler pulley, and any other moving parts in the belt system.
Before installing the new belt, compare it with the old one to ensure it’s the correct size and fit. If everything checks out, start placing the new belt around the pulleys, following the same route as the original belt.
Once the belt is in position, use the ratchet again to release the tensioner, and slip the belt over the tensioner pulley. Make sure the belt is properly seated on all pulleys and doesn’t have any twists.
Double-check the belt alignment and make sure it runs smoothly on all pulleys. Start the engine and observe the belt’s movement. If it runs smoothly without any wobbling, you’re done.
Reconnect the negative terminal of the battery and perform a final inspection to ensure everything is secure. If there’s any unusual noise or the belt shows signs of wear, double-check the installation.
Troubleshooting Common Issues with the 2017 6.7 Cummins Serpentine Belt
If your 2017 6.7 Cummins engine is showing signs of serpentine belt issues, start by checking for belt wear or cracks. The serpentine belt is under constant stress and can wear out over time, especially if it’s misaligned or improperly tensioned. A worn-out belt will produce a squeaking noise or even slip off the pulleys, leading to engine power loss.
Check the tensioner. If the tensioner fails, the belt may not stay tight enough, which could cause it to slip. A worn-out or faulty tensioner usually manifests as inconsistent belt movement or noticeable vibrations from the engine. Inspect the tensioner pulley for any signs of damage, and replace it if needed.
Misalignment is another common issue. Ensure all pulleys are properly aligned. Misalignment can occur due to worn bearings or incorrect installation, causing the belt to wear unevenly. This will eventually result in premature failure. If the belt has excessive wear on one side, it’s a clear sign of misalignment.
Inspect the pulleys themselves. Over time, pulleys can accumulate dirt or debris that may affect their rotation. Cleaning the pulleys can help eliminate friction and prevent damage to the belt. Also, check for any cracks or rough edges on the pulleys that could cause the belt to fray or snap.
Pay attention to any unusual noises, especially squealing or chirping sounds. These noises often indicate a belt slipping or a pulley problem. If the serpentine belt is not making proper contact with the pulleys, it could lead to overheating, power steering loss, or alternator failure.
Lastly, check the belt routing. Incorrect routing of the serpentine belt can lead to uneven wear and poor performance. Double-check the belt diagram to ensure it’s installed correctly.