HomeBelts and Cooling > Accessory Drive Belt System ComponentsGates 38251 Accessory Drive Belt Tensioner Assembly
Part #: 38251

Gates 38251 Accessory Drive Belt Tensioner Assembly

DriveAlign Premium OE Automatic Belt Tensioner
⚙️ 8 vehicles fit this part
🔍
Select your vehicle to confirm fitment
Verify this part fits before purchasing — free returns if it doesn't
$111.80Free Shipping
🚚Free ShippingNo Cost to Continental U.S.
🔄Free Returns*Wrong fit? No cost
🛡️60-Day ReturnsMoney back guarantee
*Free return shipping only qualifies if our fitment verification tool is used.
🔥
✅ In Stock · Ready To Ship Most orders ship same-day if ordered before 1pm CST.
OE Direct Replacement — Bolt-on fit, no modifications needed
📦DriveAlign Premium OE Automatic Belt Tensioner
🚗Fitment: Lincoln, Continental
🔄Easy Returns — Return within 60 days for a full refund
🚚Fast Shipping — Most orders ship same business day before 1pm CST

Overview of Gates DriveAlign Premium OE Automatic Belt Tensioner

The Gates DriveAlign Premium OE Automatic Belt Tensioner 38251 is engineered for precise belt tension control in Lincoln Continental vehicles. Designed with durable steel construction and a smooth contact surface, this tensioner assembly ensures reliable performance for V-ribbed accessory drive belts.

  • Constructed from high-strength steel for durability
  • Compatible with V-ribbed belt systems
  • Single pulley design without flange for smooth operation
  • Outside diameter of 76 mm (2.99 in) and width of 30.5 mm (1.2 in)
  • Includes tensioner assembly and mounting bolt
  • OE exact fit for Lincoln Continental models

Detailed Product Description

This accessory drive belt tensioner assembly, part number 38251, is specifically designed for the Lincoln Continental. It features a single pulley with a smooth backside contact surface, optimized for V-ribbed belts. The pulley has an outside diameter of 76 mm (2.99 inches) and a width of 30.5 mm (1.2 inches), with a bearing bore inside diameter of 17 mm (0.67 inches). The tensioner is constructed from steel, providing strength and resistance to wear under continuous engine operation. The assembly includes the tensioner and the necessary mounting bolt for installation.

DriveAlign Premium OE Automatic Belt Tensioner Product Line

The DriveAlign Premium OE Automatic Belt Tensioner line by Gates focuses on delivering original equipment (OE) exact replacement parts. This ensures compatibility and performance that meet factory specifications. The 38251 tensioner assembly is part of this line, offering precise tension control and durability tailored for specific vehicle applications like the Lincoln Continental.

Common Applications and Issues Addressed

  • Maintains proper tension on V-ribbed accessory drive belts
  • Prevents belt slippage and associated noise
  • Reduces premature belt wear and extends belt life
  • Eliminates belt misalignment caused by worn tensioners
  • Supports smooth operation of engine accessories such as alternators and power steering pumps

Installation Notes and Tips

  • Ensure compatibility with Lincoln Continental models before installation
  • Use the included mounting bolt for secure attachment
  • Inspect the belt and pulley for wear during replacement
  • Follow vehicle manufacturer torque specifications for mounting hardware
  • Verify proper belt alignment and tension after installation

Quality Assurance and Warranty

The Gates DriveAlign Premium OE Automatic Belt Tensioner 38251 is manufactured to meet OE standards, ensuring reliable fit and function. Gates provides quality assurance through rigorous testing and material standards. This part carries an OE comparison rating of exact fit, supporting confidence in its performance and durability.

BrandGates
Part Number38251
PositionDriveAlign Premium OE Automatic Belt Tensioner
Bearing Bore Inside Diameter.67
Bearing Bore Inside Diameter17
Bearing Bore Inside Diameter 1 (in).67
Bearing Bore Inside Diameter 1 (mm)17
Belt TypeV-Ribbed
Belt TypeV-Ribbed
Contact SurfaceSmooth/Backside
ContentsTensioner Assy., Bolt
MaterialSteel
Mounting Hole Quantity1
OE Comparison RatingOE Exact
Outside Diameter2.99
Outside Diameter76
Outside Diameter (in)2.99
Outside Diameter (mm)76
Pulley 1 FlangedNo
Pulley 1 FlangedNo
Pulley Quantity1
Width1.2
Width30.5
Width (in)1.2
Width (mm)30.5

This part fits 8 vehicles. Search below:

YearMakeModelLitersCylindersFuel TypePositionNotes
2002LincolnContinental4.6LV8GASN/ADriveAlign Premium OE Automatic Belt Tensioner
2001LincolnContinental4.6LV8GASN/ADriveAlign Premium OE Automatic Belt Tensioner
2000LincolnContinental4.6LV8GASN/ADriveAlign Premium OE Automatic Belt Tensioner
1999LincolnContinental4.6LV8GASN/ADriveAlign Premium OE Automatic Belt Tensioner
1998LincolnContinental4.6LV8GASN/ADriveAlign Premium OE Automatic Belt Tensioner
1997LincolnContinental4.6LV8GASN/ADriveAlign Premium OE Automatic Belt Tensioner
1996LincolnContinental4.6LV8GASN/ADriveAlign Premium OE Automatic Belt Tensioner
1995LincolnContinental4.6LV8GASN/ADriveAlign Premium OE Automatic Belt Tensioner

* Always verify fitment with your vehicle's VIN if unsure. Submodel & trim restrictions may apply.

This part directly replaces or is cross-referenced with the following part numbers:

305309382514932189309999139999139AF70Z 6B209 AA

Cross-reference numbers are provided for identification purposes only. Always confirm fitment before ordering.