Parts for your 1987 Suzuki Jimny-Drive belt

1987 Suzuki Jimny (Sierra/Samurai) Drive-Belt — What it does and how to look after it

According to the Suzuki SJ413/Sierra/Jimny factory service manual (1984–1998), the Suzuki Electronic Parts Catalogue, and Gates/Dayco aftermarket belt catalogues, the 1987 Suzuki Jimny/Sierra is fitted with accessory drive V-belts. These belts drive the alternator and water pump, and on vehicles optioned with air-con and/or power steering, additional belts run those accessories. So yes, a drive-belt is absolutely relevant on this model.

This little rig relies on its drive-belt to keep the electrics topped up and coolant circulating. On many 1987 Jimny/Sierra setups, the single V-belt spins the alternator and water pump (and sometimes a mechanical fan). Add-ons like A/C and power steering get their own separate V-belt. If a belt slips or snaps, you’re staring at a flat battery and an overheating engine, which is the last thing anyone wants out bush or on a beach run.

As part of regular servicing, it’s smart to give the belt a proper once-over every 10,000–15,000 km or six months. In Aussie and Kiwi conditions—dust, heat, corrugations—rubber works hard. Many owners choose to replace belts every 40,000–60,000 km or around 4 years, earlier if there’s noise or visible wear. Tension matters: with moderate thumb pressure mid-span, look for about 8–12 mm of deflection (check your exact engine spec). After fitting a new belt, recheck tension after the first 500–1,000 km as it beds in.

• Watch for: cold-start squeal, cracking, glazing/shiny faces, frayed edges, oil soak, battery warning light, rising temps.
• Fitment tips: loosen the alternator pivot and adjuster bolts, lever the alternator to set tension, then tighten. Keep pulleys aligned and clean—no wobble, no rust ridges.
• Don’t use belt “dressings”, fix oil or coolant leaks that contaminate rubber.
• Touring remote? Toss a spare belt and the right spanners in the kit—cheap peace of mind.

Specs can vary by engine (F10A 1.0L vs G13A 1.3L) and whether the vehicle has A/C or power steering. The service manual and EPC list the correct belt profiles and lengths for each configuration, and most parts counters can sort it quickly with the VIN.

Popular questions

How often should the 1987 Jimny/Sierra drive-belt be replaced?
Most owners plan on 40,000–60,000 km or about 4 years. Inspect it every 10,000–15,000 km or six months. If you’re doing lots of dusty tracks, creek crossings, or stop–start city driving, shorten the interval.

How many belts does a 1987 Jimny have?
Base models typically run a single V-belt for the alternator and water pump. If fitted, A/C and power steering each use their own separate V-belt. It’s not a modern serpentine system—think simple, individual belts.

What are the tell-tale signs the belt needs attention?
Squealing on start-up, a battery light flickering, higher running temps, glazing, cracking or frayed edges, and any oil-soaked rubber. If in doubt, replace—belts are inexpensive and critical.