How long should my serpentine belt last?

[TX Mudder]

My wondering. My 96 Dodge with the 5.9L has just over 100K on the clock. Every once in a while I hear a squeel, but hell it could be the water pump /forums/images/icons/wink.gif
Should I just go ahead and replace the thing just because of mileage, or quit worrying about things that aren't broken.
I've had the trucks since new and maintain it myself.
-- Mike

 

[chevyracing]

cracks perpendicular to the belt are okay if they are small, the second it gets ANY cracks along the longitude replace it.

John

 

[Z3PR]

I replace all belts every fall. I know, they may not need it, but it doesn't cost to much, and it's not hard to do. Just something my father always did, so I do it too.

 

[87GMC]

I think goodyear goes by cracks per inch. They recommend replacement if you have more than 4 per inch. Regardless I'd replace it, that's alot of miles on belt and it's easier to replace in the garage than on the road if it fails. Cheap insurance.

 

[Prembird]

also after replacing it keep the old belt... Works great as a spare in case you need it out on the road... Unless its totally trashed that is...