Parts for your 2001 Mitsubishi Pajero-Drive belt

2001 Mitsubishi Pajero drive belt — what it does and when to replace it

Yes, a drive belt is absolutely used on the 2001 Mitsubishi Pajero. Mitsubishi’s 2001 Pajero/Montero workshop manual (NM series) specifies accessory drive belts for the alternator, power steering pump and air-conditioning compressor across petrol 6G74 V6 and 3.2 Di-D 4M41 diesel variants. Industry catalogues from Gates and Dayco list specific Micro-V/Poly-V belts and tensioners for these engines, and Haynes repair coverage for 1999–2006 models describes routine inspection and replacement of these belts. Note: the 3.2 Di-D uses a timing chain for valve timing, while the 3.5 V6 uses a timing belt, but both still rely on external accessory drive belts.

On a 2001 Pajero, the drive belt (often a serpentine or a small set of ribbed belts) spins the alternator to keep the battery charged, turns the power steering pump for lighter steering, and runs the A/C compressor so the cabin stays cool. On some variants and markets, additional belts or different routing can apply, but the job is the same: transfer crankshaft power to the vehicle’s vital accessories.

Good servicing makes a big difference. Belts harden and crack with heat and age, ribs wear and glaze, and tensioners or idlers can get noisy. Most owners and mechanics in Aus/NZ aim to inspect the belt every service and replace around 80,000–100,000 km or 5–6 years, earlier if there’s noise or visible wear. Always follow the workshop manual procedure for your exact engine code.

• Check each service: look for cracks across the ribs, missing chunks, fraying, glazing, contamination with oil/coolant, or any rib separation.
• Listen: squeals on cold start, chirps at idle, or belt “slap” hint at wear or misalignment.
• Feel and track: if charging is weak, steering goes heavy, or A/C performance drops, the belt or tensioner may be the culprit.

When replacing, fit quality belts that match the OEM profile and length. Inspect and spin the idler and tensioner pulleys, replace any that feel rough or wobbly. Confirm alignment across all pulleys, route the belt exactly to the under‑bonnet diagram (or workshop manual), and set/tension per spec—spring tensioners should move smoothly and hold steady. After installation, recheck tension and listen again after a short drive.

Technical sources referenced: Mitsubishi Motors Pajero/Montero 2001 Workshop Manual (NM series, Group 14), Gates Micro‑V belt catalogue, Dayco Accessory Belt Guide, and Haynes Montero/Pajero 1999–2006 service coverage.

• Does the 2001 Pajero use a single serpentine belt or multiple belts?
  Most 2001 Pajero engines run a multi‑rib serpentine belt setup, some variants may use an additional belt for A/C. The exact layout depends on engine (6G74 V6 vs 4M41 Di‑D) and equipment. A quick look under the bonnet or checking the belt routing decal will confirm what’s fitted.
• How often should the drive belt be replaced on a 2001 Pajero?
  Inspect at every service and replace about every 80,000–100,000 km or 5–6 years, or sooner if there are cracks, glazing, noise, or tensioner wear. Harsh conditions (dust, heat, off‑road, towing) can shorten that interval.
• What size belt does my 3.2 Di‑D or 3.5 V6 need?
  Belt length and rib count vary with engine code, A/C fitment, and pulley configuration. Use the VIN/engine code and accessory list against a reputable parts catalogue, or read the part number on the old belt if still legible.