[DML] Torn waterpump belt

["Michael Conrad" <mike@xxxxxxxxxxx>]

So, today as I was coming off the highway my voltage dropped significantly. A dozen seconds later my temp gage pegged. I pulled into the nearest parking lot and saw coolant all over the right hand side of the engine bay, and a torn-up altenator/waterpump belt. I did not see any signs of continued coolant leaks, and am thinking it must have come out the overflow tube after boiling in the engine?

Oddly, the belt wasn't snapped, just had a few teeth missing and the edge had split off. Once the car had cooled down a bit I reached in and was able to spin the alternator easily. The water pump doesn't "spin" but it does turn easily with a bit of drag. I was worried at first that something seized and tore the belt, but since both are still turning easily, is it safe to assume the belt just died of old age? If I put on a new belt and top off the coolant, what should I look/listen for before getting back on the road?

And yes, I've read all the posts about engines overheating and warping the heads. I will be checking my oil for water and vice versa.

Thanks in advance.
-Mike
5732

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