Accessory Drive Belt Inspection; Maintenance-Free Battery - Jeep Grand Cherokee Operating Information Manual

Accessory Drive Belt Inspection

WARNING!
• Do not attempt to inspect an accessory
drive belt with vehicle running.
• When working near the radiator cooling
fan, disconnect the fan motor lead. The fan
is temperature controlled and can start at
any time regardless of ignition switch po-
sition. You could be injured by the moving
fan blades.
• You can be badly injured working on or
around a motor vehicle. Only do service
work for which you have the knowledge
and the proper equipment. If you have any
doubt about your ability to perform a ser-
vice job, take your vehicle to a competent
mechanic.
When inspecting accessory drive belts, small
cracks that run across ribbed surface of belt
from rib to rib, are considered normal. These
are not a reason to replace belt. However,
cracks running along a rib (not across) are not
normal. Any belt with cracks running along a rib
must be replaced. Also have the belt replaced if
it has excessive wear, frayed cords or severe
glazing.
Accessory Belt (Serpentine Belt)
Conditions that would require replacement:
• Rib chunking (one or more ribs has sepa-
rated from belt body)
• Rib or belt wear
• Longitudinal belt cracking (cracks between
two ribs)
• Belt slips
• "Groove jumping" (belt does not maintain
correct position on pulley)
• Belt broken (note: identify and correct prob-
lem before new belt is installed)
• Noise (objectionable squeal, squeak, or
rumble is heard or felt while drive belt is in
operation)
Some conditions can be caused by a faulty
component such as a belt pulley. Belt pulleys
should be carefully inspected for damage and
proper alignment.
Belt replacement on some models requires the
use of special tools, we recommend having
your vehicle serviced at an authorized dealer.

Maintenance-Free Battery

Your vehicle is equipped with a maintenance-
free battery. You will never have to add water,
nor is periodic maintenance required.
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