C3 water pump belt being discontinued by GM

[Michael M.]

Last month I was researching the NCRS archives for information on the smog pulley and the "captive" water pump belt (the one between the water pump and crankshaft with no provision for adjustment) for my 68 L36. I came across an entry by Joe Lucia in November, 2007 indicating that the proper belt for my application was still available from GM and was part number 9433717.

When I went to purchase that belt at the Chevy dealer near me I was told it was discontinued and not available. I called my dad in Virginia Beach and his local Chevy dealer also told him that the part number was discontinued but that there were still some available at the warehouse. My dad bought one and sent it to me and it fit properly (Thanks, Joe!). I then had my dad go back and buy a few more that I will put away for later use. I am not sure how much inventory is out there, but if you want this belt, you better buy it quick.

To be clear, I am not sure that this belt might not otherwise be available in the aftermarket. It has the size dimensions on the packaging and the belt is manufactured by Goodyear (and so they may continue to make the belt even though GM isn't carrying it anymore). Joe Lucia would probably know more about this than me.

This is simply a public service message.

[Marc R.]

Re: C3 water pump belt being discontinued by GM

I believe Quanta reproduces it, but I'm not an expert.

[Dick W.]

Re: C3 water pump belt being discontinued by GM

While it is made by GM and does fit, it does not judge well. The construction is different and the belts used in 1968 did not have a part number that begins with "9".

[Michael M.]

Re: C3 water pump belt being discontinued by GM

First, let me state that my car is a driver, so it is not judged. If I recall, some of the older posts discussed the Quanta belt and how it was more for "show" than "go". Since, I drive my car, I needed to make sure that the belts would hold up to street driving (yes, I do punch it every so often). Anyway, I needed a functional replacement and since my captive belt was missing, I didn't quite know where to start, so I did an archive search and came up with the part number Joe cited.

If your car is judged, then this is not the belt for you.