Question about changing drive belt - what else to change while doing this?
 

A few questions:

My mechanic told me that my "drive belt / AC belt" need(s) to be changed. He mentioned that these are "packaged together."

I'm not sure what he meant - is the drive belt / AC (air conditioning/accessory?) the same part? I think it is, but I'd just like to confirm...

Also, is this the belt that Bav Auto refers to as: Belt - Serpentine - Water Pump - Alternator - 7k x 1635 Part # : 11 28 1 432 724.

While doing this, what else should I have done? I think I should have the water pump and thermostat replaced at the same time to save labor - is this true? And am I missing anything?

TIA.

What's your milage?

My mileage is ~ 67k. If doing so will save on labor costs, I would like to do the water pump and T-stat at the same time as the drive belt. But if it doesn't save any labor, then I won't bother.

So the question is: while they are changing the drive belt, is it worth it to also do the other stuff?

the ac belt is easy ... 15 minutes from below. so is the drive belt but it takes patience and finesse ... you can do both from below and from top, without even jacking the car up ... 1 hr or so ... if you can take the fan off its very easy, you dont even have to actually take the fan out of the car, just far out so that you can put the belt thru easily. take a pic or make a sketch/ diagram how it is routed. also wear glasses while taking the undercover panel out. hth! best of luck.

at 67K i wouldnt change the t-stat and waterpump .. but thats imo ...

around 100k, do the coolant flush and t-stat and waterpump if you want.

Thanks dandruff. That's good advice.

So is the part number correct because I also see
Belt - Serpentine 5k x 863 Air Conditioning Part # : 11 28 1 437 872
as well as
Air Conditioner Belt Part # : 11 28 7 512 762


from bavauto.com

I would do it all at the same time personally. I just got the Bentley manual and plan on doing water pump both belts t-stat and put in new coolant. Its all right there. Once you take off your belts you'll want to go ahead and take off the fan.

Thanks, so what belts do I buy?

Is there a clear part number? Stealer wanted 200 for the job? Any help on the belt part numbers?

i would also ask them to check the hoses and have any replaced as needed since your mechanic is down there.

if youre really adventurous, you can do a pulley upgrade :D