How to Look for Wear or Cracks on Belts in a Mitsubishi 3000GT

Manufactured from 1991 to 1999, the Mitsubishi 3000GT was the perfect car for the racing enthusiast. Many owners modify these cars, and like to perform routine maintenance themselves. Part of this maintenance should include inspecting the drive belts, which run vital engine components. To keep your 3000GT running well, you should inspect the belt every 30,000 miles.

Difficulty: Moderately Easy

Instructions

1. Let your engine cool for at least 30 minutes before staring your inspection. Hot components can badly burn you.

2. Pull the lever inside your Mitsubishi 3000GT to pop the hood. Walk around to the front of the car and open the hood, making sure to prop it up. Look around for two or three belts that run around several different engine components; a good place to start looking is around the alternator or power steering pump.

3. Do a visual inspection of the drive belt. Look for cracks in the belt as well as fraying. These are signs the belt needs replacing. If you see any of the reinforcing cords sticking out, replace the belt right away.

4. Feel along the length of the belt in your Mitsubishi 3000GT. If the belt feels glossy or smooth, this is a sign the belt is worn. A belt in good condition will have a slight texture to it.

5. Look for oil on the belt; if you find any, this could be a sign of a major problem, like a leaking head gasket. Replace the belt and find the source of the leak as soon as possible.

6. Close the hood of your Mitsubishi 3000GT. If you found any fraying, cracks or glossy spots on the drive belt, replace it.

Tips & Warnings

• The timing belt should be replaced every 60,000 miles to avoid mechanical breakdown.

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