Parts for your 1997 Daihatsu Gran move-Drive belt

1997 Daihatsu Gran Move drive-belt — what it does and when to replace it

Referencing technical sources, a drive-belt is definitely fitted to the 1997 Daihatsu Gran Move and is relevant to routine servicing. The Daihatsu Motor Co. G300 Series (Pyzar/Gran Move) service manual identifies V‑ribbed accessory belts driving the alternator and, where equipped, the power steering pump and A/C compressor. Australian and New Zealand application catalogues from Gates (Micro‑V) and Dayco also list specific accessory belts for 1997 Gran Move variants, confirming fitment across the range.

On this model, the drive-belt’s job is to spin the alternator to keep the battery charged and electrics happy, and to power steering and A/C hardware if the vehicle has those options. Some engines drive the water pump via the timing belt rather than the accessory belt, but that varies by variant—either way, the accessory belt is critical for everyday reliability.

For servicing, it’s sensible to inspect the belt at every service and replace it at signs of wear, or roughly every 60,000–100,000 kilometres or 4–6 years, whichever comes first. The Gran Move typically uses manually adjusted belts (alternator/PS bracket and an A/C idler on many trims), so correct tension matters. Too loose and it’ll squeal or undercharge, too tight and bearings can cop it.

• What to look for: cracking between ribs, fraying edges, glazing/shiny surfaces, missing chunks, or chirps/squeals on cold start.
• Tension check: aim for modest deflection at the longest belt span, recheck after a short run-in as new belts bed in.
• Good practice: replace as a set if multiple belts are fitted, inspect pulleys and idlers, and clean any oil/coolant contamination.

1. Confirm belt layout and routing in the under‑bonnet decal or workshop guide.
2. Slack off the adjuster/hardware, remove the old belt(s), and check pulley condition and alignment.
3. Fit a quality V‑ribbed belt, set tension, run the engine, then recheck tension and charging voltage.

Worth noting: the Gran Move engines also use a timing belt for the cam drive. That’s a separate item from the accessory drive-belt. Many owners choose to replace the accessory belt whenever the timing belt is done, as access is easier and it keeps the front of the engine shipshape.

Popular questions about 1997 Daihatsu Gran Move drive-belts

How often should the drive-belt be replaced?

Most Gran Move owners will be fine replacing the belt about every 60,000–100,000 kilometres or 4–6 years, with inspections at each service. If the vehicle does short trips, sees lots of dust, or the belt shows cracking or glazing, bring replacement forward.

What are the common symptoms of a worn drive-belt on a Gran Move?

Squealing on start‑up, dimming lights at idle, a heavy steering feel (if power steering is fitted), weak A/C performance, or visible cracks and frayed ribs on the belt are classic signs. Any coolant or oil on the belt is also a red flag.

Does the Gran Move run one serpentine belt or multiple belts?

Most 1997 Gran Move variants use more than one V‑ribbed belt—typically one for the alternator/PS and another for the A/C. Exact setup depends on engine and options fitted, so it’s best to check the routing diagram under the bonnet or the model’s service manual.