Fox Body Mustang Serpentine Belt Diagram

The serpentine belt is a critical component in the Fox Body Mustang's engine system. Unlike older V-belt systems that require multiple belts to drive various accessories, the serpentine belt is a single, continuous belt that powers multiple components such as the alternator, power steering pump, air conditioning compressor, and sometimes the water pump.

Knowing the correct Ford serpentine belt configuration for a Fox Body Mustang is crucial for several reasons. The correct length and tension are essential to ensure that all engine accessories are driven at the appropriate speeds without slipping or excessive wear. A proper configuration also ensures optimal engine performance and efficiency, as any slippage or misalignment can lead to reduced accessory performance and increased wear on the belt.

Follow the guide below to find the right configuration for your 1985-1993 Mustang's serpentine belt. Connect the right accessories for your engine type and ensure smooth belt operation with the correct size serpentine belt.

Fox Body Mustang Serpentine Belt Routing

Factory 5.0 with Power Steering and Air Conditioning

For the stock 5.0 serpentine belt path setup, feed the belt around the alternator and underneath the tensioner. Pull the belt up and around the AC unit, then back down around the outside of the power steering connection. From here, pull the belt down around the outside of the crankshaft, then up and around the inside of the water pump. Finish the configuration by pulling the belt down and around the outside of the smog pump.

Belt Length: A belt in this configuration for 1985-1993 Mustangs will need to be 91” long.

Power Steering and Smog Pump Bypass with Air Conditioning

To bypass the smog pump and power steering, feed the belt around the alternator and underneath the tensioner. Pull the belt up and around the AC unit, then redirect the belt so it travels around the inside of the water pump. From here, pull the belt down around the outside of the crankshaft, creating an “s” shape around the water pump. Finish the configuration by pulling the belt back up to the outside of the alternator and wrapping it around the outside.

Belt Length: A belt in this configuration for 1985-1993 Mustangs will need to be 70.5” long.

Smog Pump Bypass with Air Conditioning and Power Steering

To bypass just the smog pump, feed the belt around the alternator and underneath the tensioner. Pull the belt up and around the AC unit, then back down around the outside of the power steering connection. From here, pull the belt up around the inside of the water pump. Once the belt has wrapped around the inside of the water pump, pull it down so it wraps around the outside of the crankshaft. Finish the configuration by pulling the belt back up to the outside of the alternator and wrapping it around the outside.

Belt Length: A belt in this configuration for 1985-1993 Mustangs will need to be 84.5” long.

Factory Setup without Air Conditioning

For the stock serpentine belt setup in a Fox Body Mustang without air conditioning, feed the belt around the alternator and underneath the tensioner. Pull the belt straight around the outside of the power steering connection. From here, pull the belt down around the outside of the crankshaft, then up and around the inside of the water pump. Finish the configuration by pulling the belt down and around the outside of the smog pump, then back up to the alternator.

Belt Length: A belt in this configuration for 1985-1993 Mustangs will need to be 84.5” long.

Smog Pump Bypass Using Ford Racing Air Conditioning Eliminator

To configure the serpentine belt while bypassing the smog pump in a Fox Body Mustang with no AC, feed the belt around the alternator and underneath the tensioner. Wrap the belt around the outside of the power steering connection. From here, pull the belt down around the outside of the crankshaft, then up and around the inside of the water pump. Finish the configuration by pulling the belt up from the inside track of the water pump back around the outside of the alternator.

Belt Length: A belt in this configuration for 1985-1993 Mustangs will need to be 73” long.

Replace Your Fox Body Mustang's Belt System

Now that you have the right Fox Body belt routing, you're ready to modify your engine with confidence. If you've noticed that your Mustang's belt looks worn or damaged, it may be time for a replacement. Make sure your Fox Body Mustang's belt systems are up to date with an aftermarket belt replacement. Check out our selection of replacement Mustang belts below and swap out your Mustang's air conditioning or serpentine belt for improved engine longevity.