Gates 38485 Accessory Drive Belt Tensioner Assembly

OE Automatic Belt Tensioner for Ford, Lincoln, Mazda

Gates DriveAlign Premium OE Automatic Belt Tensioner Part Number 38485 is built for accessory drive systems that need consistent belt tension and OE-style fit. It is a direct replacement for a wide range of Ford, Lincoln, and Mazda applications, including Ford Explorer, Ford Edge, Lincoln MKX, and Mazda CX-9.

Key Features

• OE Exact comparison rating for factory-style fit, form, and function
• Thermoplastic construction for the tensioner body
• Single smooth/backside pulley with no flange
• V-ribbed belt application
• Three mounting holes for secure installation
• Gates DriveAlign Premium OE Automatic Belt Tensioner line for OE-level system design
• Part Number 38485 for easy cross-reference and ordering

Product Details

This Gates DriveAlign Premium OE Automatic Belt Tensioner is engineered to meet rigid OE tolerances and specifications, helping maintain proper accessory belt load in the engine drive system. The pulley measures 2.76 in. (70 mm) outside diameter, 1 in. (25.5 mm) width, and 0.67 in. (17 mm) bearing bore inside diameter. It uses a smooth backside contact surface and is designed for V-ribbed belts. This part cross-references Continental 49450 for the same application. Part Number 38485 is a practical OE-style replacement for drivers servicing Ford Explorer, Ford Flex, Ford Taurus, Lincoln MKT, and Mazda CX-9 belt drive systems.

What It Helps Address

• Belt squeal caused by weak or inconsistent tension
• Accessory belt flutter or vibration
• Uneven belt tracking on the drive system
• Noise from a worn tensioner pulley or bearing
• Loss of proper belt load in the accessory drive system

Installation Notes and Tips

Verify belt routing and confirm the OE comparison rating before installation. Inspect the accessory belt, idler pulleys, and related drive components for wear while replacing the tensioner. Confirm mounting hole alignment and pulley contact surface style match the original application. Fits 2017-2020 Lincoln Continental, N/A; Fits 2011-2019 Ford Explorer, N/A; Fits 2009-2019 Ford Flex, N/A; Fits 2008-2019 Ford Taurus, N/A; Fits 2010-2019 Lincoln MKT, N/A; Fits 2007-2018 Ford Edge, N/A; Fits 2007-2018 Lincoln MKX, N/A; Fits 2009-2016 Lincoln MKS, N/A; Fits 2007-2016 Lincoln MKZ, N/A; Fits 2007-2015 Mazda CX-9, N/A; Fits 2009-2013 Mazda 6, N/A; Fits 2010-2012 Ford Fusion, N/A; Fits 2008-2009 Ford Taurus X, N/A; Fits 2008-2009 Mercury Sable, N/A.

Quality Assurance

Gates is a global OE system designer, and the DriveAlign Premium OE Automatic Belt Tensioner line is manufactured to tight tolerances for OE fit, form, and function. Part Number 38485 is built to match the original-style accessory drive tensioner requirements for the listed Ford, Lincoln, and Mazda vehicles.