[SnowMonster]

What a difference running a Gates Powerated auger belt on my old Craftsman makes. The Auger idler clutch systems on our snowblowers really work a belt hard. These Powerated belts have Aramid cord construction (Trade name Kevlar) They stretch less, stay in adjustment longer and don't grab the engine pulley when disengaged. They have a smooth texture rather than tacky or sticky, like a normal belt. Auger belts, when disengaged, need to allow the engine pulley to slip through the belt. These are perfect clutching belts for that reason. No more burning rubber smell when idling. I run a normal type drive belt for the drive system, as those belts are in constant tension and don't take the abuse that an auger belt takes. I will run only Gates Powerated auger belts from now on.

 

[RIT333]

Most people will argue that no v belt ever stretches. They just wear on their edges, and then ride deeper in the pulley, and gives the impression of being stretched. But yes, I have always liked Gates belts for automotive applications, so I would assume they would also be good for OPE applications.

 

[Marty013]

see.. im glad some folks have good stories to sahre about this particular brand of belts.. but personally.. oh my lol my belt woes litterally just up and left as soon as i changed from Gates Powerrated.. to another brand.. both of these are aramid reinforced.. im really stumped as to why i had such horrible luck with my Gates belts... 4 different Gates belts.. i even tried different lenghts to have more or less wrapping around the pulleys.. double and riple checked the allignment both released and under tension.. all would walk off the idler.. flip them over... and it would self destruct... next belt.. install with the letters facing the same as the previous before it self destructed.. walk off the idler.. repeat.. bla bla...only the last belt simply self destructed within one snowfall event..

there were no alignment changes from one belt to another.. and no tension adjustments either.. just.. literally.. the belt was changed.. and voila.. no more walking off the idler... and after more than 3 snow fall vents.. its still running perfectly fine.. i wish i had a different explanation lol

but anyways.. if it works fo you guys.. thats awesome! thats the main part of my rant lol i guess im a little jealous i didnt have the same positive outcome as you guys lol

 

[HushHouse254]

I have had good luck with Dayco. OEM's not so much. Plus I can purchase them at my local Advanced Auto. In the end, as long as it's a reputable brand and more importantly the belt fits properly and adjusted, it should run well. But remember it doesn't end there. The belts should be inspected at least once a season for wear and proper deflection. Remember belts are a wear item and need periodic maintenance.