What a Gates belt cross reference chart does
A Gates belt cross reference chart matches belt part numbers from other manufacturers to their Gates equivalents, so you can order the right replacement even if your equipment originally came with a different brand. Gates publishes these charts in PDF format on their website and through distributors. The chart works by taking a belt number from Bando, Dayco, Goodyear, or another maker, then showing you the Gates part number that will fit the same pulleys and perform the same job.
You need this chart when you have an old belt with a non-Gates number on it, or when a parts supplier only has Gates in stock. The chart saves you from guessing or ordering the wrong size, which would either not fit or slip under load.
Key Takeaways
- Gates cross reference charts convert belt numbers from Bando, Dayco, Goodyear, and other brands into Gates part numbers that fit the same equipment.
- You can read the full cross reference PDF from Gates' website or request it from a local distributor who carries Gates products.
- The chart is organized by original manufacturer, so you locate your belt's brand first, then find its number in that section.
- If your belt number does not appear in the chart, contact a Gates distributor with your equipment model and original belt size for a manual lookup.
Where to find the Gates cross reference chart
Gates publishes cross reference charts on their official website under the "Resources" or "Technical Documents" section. Search for "Gates belt cross reference" or "Gates V-belt cross reference" to locate the PDF. The chart is free to read and does not require registration.
If you prefer a printed copy or need help interpreting the chart, contact a local Gates distributor. Most distributors stock the chart in their showroom and can print it for you. You can find distributors by entering your zip code on the Gates website locator tool.
How to read the cross reference chart
The chart is divided into sections by belt type — V-belts, serpentine belts, timing belts, and others. Within each section, manufacturers are listed alphabetically. Find the section that matches your belt type, then locate the column for the original manufacturer (Bando, Dayco, Goodyear, etc.).
Look down that column until you find the part number printed on your belt. The corresponding number in the Gates column is your replacement. For example, if your belt reads "Dayco 11A1000," you would find the Dayco section, locate 11A1000, and read across to the Gates column to find the equivalent Gates number.
Write down the Gates number before you order. Double-check that you have copied it correctly, because a single digit error will result in the wrong belt arriving.
What information you need before using the chart
You need the complete part number from your current belt. This number is usually molded or printed on the belt itself. Look on the flat side or the inner edge, depending on belt type. The number may include letters and numbers — for instance, "A38" or "6PK1850" — and you must have all of it.
If the number is worn away or illegible, you have two options. First, measure the belt length and width, then contact a Gates distributor with those measurements and your equipment model. Second, remove the belt and bring it to a distributor in person; they can often identify it by sight or by comparing it to samples in their catalog.
Common belt types on the cross reference chart
V-belts are the most common type and appear in older lawn mowers, compressors, and industrial equipment. They are named for their V-shaped cross-section. The chart lists them by width and length — for example, "A35" means a belt in the A width class that is 35 inches long.
Serpentine belts (also called multi-rib or poly-V belts) have multiple parallel grooves and are found in most modern cars and trucks. These are listed by a code like "6PK1850," where the number before "PK" indicates the number of ribs, and the number after indicates the length in tenths of an inch.
Timing belts have teeth that mesh with gears and are used in engines and precision machinery. These are listed with tooth count and pitch — for example, "HTD 8M 20" means 8-millimeter pitch with 20 teeth.
Flat belts are less common today but still appear in older equipment. They are listed by width and length, such as "1 x 42."
What to do if your belt number is not in the chart
If you cannot find your belt number in the cross reference, the number may be incomplete, misspelled, or from a very old or regional manufacturer that Gates does not cross-reference. Do not guess or order a number that looks similar — a wrong belt will not fit or will slip.
Contact a Gates distributor with the belt itself, your equipment model, and the original manufacturer name if you can read it. Distributors have access to more detailed lookup tools and can often find a match through manual research. Some distributors can also contact Gates technical support on your behalf if the belt is truly obscure.
Measuring your belt as a backup method
If the part number is completely illegible, you can measure the belt to narrow down your options. For V-belts and flat belts, measure the length from the inside of one end to the inside of the other end, and measure the width across the top. For serpentine belts, measure the total length around the outside of the belt.
Write down these measurements and bring them to a distributor along with your equipment model and the original belt brand if visible. The distributor can cross-reference by size and equipment type, which usually yields the correct Gates number. This method takes longer than using the chart but works when the number is gone.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use a belt from a different manufacturer if the Gates belt is out of stock?
Yes, if you have the cross reference chart. Find your Gates number in the chart, then look across the row to find the equivalent numbers from other manufacturers. Any of those numbers should fit your equipment. However, verify that the substitute is actually in stock before you order, because availability varies by distributor and region.
Do I need the exact Gates number, or will a close number work?
You need the exact number. Belt sizes are precise — a belt that is off by even one inch in length will either be too loose and slip, or too tight and strain the pulleys. Do not order a number that is similar; order the exact match from the chart.
What if the chart shows multiple Gates numbers for one original belt?
This sometimes happens when Gates offers the same belt in different product lines or with different reinforcement. Contact the distributor to confirm which Gates number is current and in stock. The distributor can also tell you if one version is preferred for your equipment type.
Is the cross reference chart the same for all belt types?
No. Gates publishes separate charts for V-belts, serpentine belts, timing belts, and other types. Make sure you are looking at the chart for your belt type. If you are unsure what type you have, a distributor can identify it from a photo or description.
Can I print the cross reference chart for my own use?
Yes. The PDF is free to read and print. You can keep a copy in your shop or vehicle for reference. However, check the Gates website occasionally for updated versions, as manufacturers sometimes add new cross references or correct errors.