Is there a way to convert to serpentine?

[Skunksmash]

I would like to convert my 87 Silverado 5.7L 2WD to a serpentine belt system instead of all those little belts. Anyone know the best way to go about this?

[Captkaos]

Junkyard or you can actually buy the whole kit from GM.

[camdenoilchange]

junkyard and a little elbow grease will be the cheapest route. I've been looking around and the after market kits are $$$$$$!

[Skunksmash]

Thanks guys, anyone got a link? Also, for the junkyard way: What year of truck do i need to look for, and what all parts are involved?

[Captkaos]

Serpentine started on the trucks in 1987 as an option, you could also get it off of F-bodies.
You can also get it off of the newer trucks (Vortec) with the better/smaller AC compressor...

[Skunksmash]

Interesting... whats better about that AC compressor?

[Captkaos]

It works with 134A and it doesn't take much power to operate in my opinion.

[Skunksmash]

It works with 134A and it doesn't take much power to operate in my opinion.

Well my truck has this sticker that says "This system has been retrofitted to use R134A refrigerant" so does that mean that i have to have the newer compressor, or does it mean that i could still have the old one?

[VileZambonie]

I believe he's referring to the V5 compressor which a variable displacement compressor. You probably have an R4 compressor.

V5



R4

[Captkaos]

Correct.  R4 came on our trucks, the V5 came on the later Vortecs.

[Skunksmash]

Dang. Well i guess this could all just be part of the conversion process then. I guess you have to have that newer compressor to make the conversion work?

[VileZambonie]

Not if you have the bracketry for the R4

[Captkaos]

There are basically 2 Truck serp setups, whichever you get will dictate what compressor you get...