Which is the correct belt size?

[irocz0r]

Hey guys, I've got a beautiful Alpine White 1987 325i sedan. All the drive belts squeak like hell and who knows how old they are. I had the timing belt replaced already, but I still need to do the alternator belt, steering belt, and A/C belt.

Trouble is, I'm finding conflicting information.

According to this handy looking wiki here (http://www.e30zone.net/e30zonewiki/i...Changing_Belts), the belt sizes are as follows:

Alternator: 10x965
Steering: 9.5x825
A/C: 12.5x823


However, when I go to the PelicanParts page to buy parts here (http://www.pelicanparts.com/catalog/..._pg1.htm#item2), the belt sizes are different as follows:

Alternator: 10x965
Steering: 10x825
A/C: 13x810

So the steering's slightly off and the A/C is way off. I'm worried that Pelican Parts might be showing the wrong part? So, which size is correct? Also, how is the Continental brand belts versus the BMW brand belts?

[jlevie]

Try going to realoem.com, plugging in the last seven of your VIN, and seeing what the OE sizes were. Naturally that assumes the belt driven parts are all OE or OEM.

[e30davie]

Since they are all V belts, the first number doesnt matter as long as its pretty close, you are +/- 0.5mm, no issue.

The only concerning thing for me is the AC belt being slightly longer. but it still might be within the adjustment.

Best bet, see what belts are on your car at the moment and just buy the same. the size should be printed on the belt in numerous places. As long as the V is pretty close and the length is pretty close you will be right:)