|
|
Eddie Motorsports S-Drive Serpentine Kit Install - DrivenEddie Motorsports S-Drive Serpentine Kit Install From the November, 2011 issue of Chevy High Performance By Sean Haggai
|
|
All too often, in the game of project cars, room for improvement is always available. When it comes to upgrading, we’ve got a ton of products to choose from. Some upgrades happen purely out of necessity, others for fun, or when the budget allows for it. The privileged just can’t wait to get the latest and greatest offerings in the aftermarket. For us, though, our install this month consisted of a well-liked upgrade—the serpentine drivebelt system. Its tight, clean, and simplistic design makes the perfect addition to free up engine bay real estate on our small-block-powered ’64 Chevelle. The serpentine system, first introduced in GM vehicles during the mid-’80s, is more efficient than the older multiple belt systems. Serpentines use a single, wide belt to drive all of the accessories instead of thinner V-belts. Additionally, they require less space to operate and produce higher tension, which also reduces slip. In turn, less slip means longer belt life, extending your initial investment. What’s more, serpentine systems are also much easier to maintain and replace. Our all-inclusive S-Drive kit (PN EMS107-55M) from Eddie Motorsports included CNC-machined components from high-quality aluminum and utilized stainless steel hardware for longevity. All systems are available for small- or big-block applications in machined finish, polished, anodized, or powdercoated versions. Complete systems include billet pulleys, A/C compressor and tensioner covers, A/C compressor manifold, and all the necessary brackets. However, A/C lines are not included. At most, you’ll have to get a few lines made to adapt to your specific application. Also included are a Powermaster 105A alternator, Edelbrock water pump, Sanden compressor, Unisteer power steering pump, and a Gates serpentine belt. Although, we began with the front of our small-block already torn down, the removal process is easily completed with basic handtools. Under the technical hands of Jason Scudellari, we installed the entire EMS S-Drive kit before midday. Our final touch was adding the serpentine Gates belt to complete the package.  Our current setup was comprised...  Our current setup was comprised of the “wide”-style belt system. This made use of various thin steel brackets, adjustments, and two separate V-belts. It also placed the A/C compressor and alternator at an extreme width. To be honest, the current arrangement wasn’t the most flattering and aesthetically speaking, it looked awkward.  To begin, we first installed...  To begin, we first installed the mounting studs. We applied some RTV silicone to each end of the stud and threaded in the 3/8-16x4-inch stud into the bottom passenger side and left 31/2 inches remaining from the block. The last three studs are threaded in and stick out 21/2 inches. Note: A thread chasing tool may be needed to clean out the threads in the block prior to installing the studs.  Working from inside the engine...  Working from inside the engine bay, space was at a premium. To avoid any tight fits, we opted to install the billet crank pulley next.  Before adding the CNC-machined...  Before adding the CNC-machined brackets to the front of the block, we first included the two small O-rings. The rings create a watertight seal against the block and water pump. Then, we slid the compressor (passenger side) and alternator (driver side) brackets through the studs.  Eddie Motorsports made sure...  Eddie Motorsports made sure to include everything you would need to complete their S-Drive kit. Case in point, the aluminum Edelbrock water pump. To mount it, we simply slid it over the studs. No need for gaskets here, the previously installed O-rings take care of that.  Provided in the S-Drive kit...  Provided in the S-Drive kit are four spacer posts. Their job is to supply the main bracket with a foundation and attaches to the remaining threads from the studs. We installed the short, 1.85-inch spacer post to the bottom passenger stud. Then, we installed the remaining three (2.69 inches) spacer posts to the other studs.  The S-Drive system allows...  The S-Drive system allows the Sanden A/C compressor and Powermaster Alternator to be mounted on one seamless bracket. To install it, we simply used the four M8x25mm capscrews and washers with antiseize on the threads. Note: For the time being, we only handtightened the hardware on the main bracket.  Moving along, we installed...  Moving along, we installed the power steering bracket. For the Unisteer power steering unit (self-contained), we locked it in using two 5/16-18x3-inch capsscrews. We made sure and also included the lock washers and a dab of antiseize before we tightened firmly. Note: External reservoir power steering units are also available through Eddie Motorsports.  For the alternator, we lined...  For the alternator, we lined it up against the main bracket and used one M8x25mm and one M10x80mm capscrew with washers to lock it in place. The A/C compressor installs just as the alternator does, however, the A/C compressor does involve one lower shoulder bolt (under compressor) that threads into the bracket.  To add the water pump pulley,...  To add the water pump pulley, we simply lined up the holes and threaded in the four capscrews. For good measure, we also applied some red thread locker to each bolt.  Unlike traditional multiple...  Unlike traditional multiple V-belt systems, which use complicated adjustable brackets to provide tension on the belts, the Eddie Motorsports S-Drive relies on one simple tensioner. It uses a heavy-duty internal spring to apply tension to the belt at all times. It installs onto the main bracket with a 3/8-16x21/4-inch capscrew and washer with thread locker.  Best of all, installing the...  Best of all, installing the serpentine belt only requires the use of a 1/2-inch drive ratchet. We simply rotated the tensioner to provide slack in the belt, wrapped it around the accessories (grooves facing pulleys), and released the belt.  For a finished look, we made...  For a finished look, we made sure to install the billet pulley covers onto the A/C compressor, A/C manifold, alternator, and power steering unit.  Eddie Motorsports did their...  Eddie Motorsports did their homework when it came to producing a complete serpentine kit system. While $1,800 may seem like a big investment, keep in mind you’re getting $720 in brand-new accessories. Our small-block now has a modern appeal for its components, and it looks the part, too! We no longer have to worry about throwing belts, adjusting brackets, or a crowded engine bay anymore.
|
|
|