The Secret’s Out: Shops Can Earn More While Improving Vehicle Reliability with Drive System Kits

by CHAT Media | Jun 1, 2025 | 0 comments

(SPONSORED CONTENT)

Stop just replacing the belt! Not only are you missing out on a business opportunity, but a systems approach to front-end accessory drive (FEAD) system maintenance is your best bet against comebacks. Replacing all components along with the belt increases uptime, enhances vehicle performance and leaves you with a happier customer – and longer lasting vehicle. That’s because the belt and components in a drive system wear at close to the same rate, making a complete system replacement the most ideal repair solution.

Focused on system solutions, Dayco offers all the parts you need with a comprehensive drive system kit line – making the installation process as easy as possible. Garages who frequently use and recommend kits to motorists help:

Prevent slip and misalignment issues
Create less chance of comebacks
Save 10-15% vs. buying the parts independently
Can increase shop revenue significantly (see chart here)

Dayco’s Top 5 Tips for FEAD System Inspection

#1 – Check the system around 60,000 miles

Most OEMs recommend serpentine belt inspections around 100,000 km and service around 130,000 km. However, the Auto Care Association reports that 20% of today’s vehicles need a belt replacement. This is a great inspection and maintenance opportunity for today’s shops.

#2 – Use a belt wear gauge

Since today’s belts wear differently than their predecessors, a tool like the Dayco Awearness Gauge helps measure rib depth and rib profile so it’s easier to identify if the belt is worn.

#3 – Listen for noises

Squeaks and squeals from the front end are a tell-tale sign that something is not functioning properly. Often times it is NOT the belt – but an issue with the tensioner or pulley so give all components a thorough look.

#4 – Inspect component bearings for wear

It is critical to inspect tensioner and pulley bearings. Any signs of extreme wear such as lack of grease, inability to spin freely means system replacement is a must.

#5 – Replace all components together

Improve performance, reduce comebacks and help customers save money by using a kit like the Dayco serpentine belt kit. It includes all the parts needed to ensure the repair job is done correctly the first time. Plus, you save 10-15% when purchasing a kit vs. all the needed parts individually.

Dayco offers a full line of OE-quality drive system kits for today’s vehicles with coverage for millions of applications. Each kit includes all the application-specific parts needed to do the repair right the first time.

Dayco Serpentine Belt Kits feature a premium tensioner with flat spring technology, a durable pulley with permanently lubricated bearings and a long lasting Dayco serpentine belt.

Handles higher workloads and temperatures
Reduces vibration and increases belt life

Dayco Timing Belt Kits include tough wear-resistant belts, idler pulleys with tighter dimensional tolerances and tensioners that resist cracking and fatigue.

Reduces the possibility of comebacks
Available with and without water pumps

Dayco Timing Chain Kits include top-grade timing chains that prevent stretch, precision-machined crank sprockets and cam sprockets for a flawless fit as well as tensioners, high-grade plastic guides, seals, VVT solenoids and cam phasers if the application calls for it.