Eddie Motorsports S-Drive Serpentine Kit Install - Driven
Eddie Motorsports S-Drive Serpentine Kit Install
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 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.
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.
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.
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.