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Gates 38776 Accessory Drive Belt Tensioner Assembly
OE Automatic Belt Tensioner for Subaru Forester
Gates 38776 is a DriveAlign Premium OE Automatic Belt Tensioner built for the accessory drive belt system on select Subaru Forester models. It is engineered to match OE fit, form, and function with the durability and dimensional control expected for a direct replacement.
For 2019-2024 Subaru Forester applications, this tensioner supports consistent belt tension in the V-ribbed accessory drive system. The Gates DriveAlign Premium OE line focuses on OE-quality construction and rigid manufacturing tolerances for accurate alignment and dependable operation.
Key Features
- Direct replacement accessory drive belt tensioner assembly
- OE Performance grade for factory-style fit and operation
- Plastic housing construction
- Single smooth/backside pulley design
- V-ribbed belt type application
- Two mounting holes for OE-style installation points
- Gates part number 38776
Detailed Product Overview
This Gates DriveAlign Premium OE Automatic Belt Tensioner is designed for the accessory drive belt system on the Subaru Forester. It uses a 2.75 in. (70 mm) outside diameter pulley, 1 in. (25 mm) width, and a smooth/backside pulley surface with no grooves, matching the requirements of the specified belt routing. Gates manufactures the DriveAlign line to tight specifications so the tensioner aligns with OE dimensions and operating characteristics.
This part cross-references Litens 999746A for the same application. If you are searching for a Subaru Forester belt tensioner, accessory drive belt tensioner assembly, or Gates 38776 replacement, this part is built for the listed vehicle coverage and OE-style service fit.
Common Problems This Part Addresses
- Loose or inconsistent accessory belt tension
- Belt noise from a worn tensioner assembly
- Improper belt tracking on the accessory drive system
- Reduced belt control from a fatigued pulley or internal spring mechanism
- Service replacement for a worn Subaru Forester belt tensioner
Installation Notes and Tips
Verify belt routing and inspect the V-ribbed accessory belt before installation. Confirm the mounting points, pulley alignment, and surrounding accessory components are in good condition so the new tensioner can operate correctly. Use the vehicle fitment data to confirm this Gates 38776 application for 2019-2024 Subaru Forester models before ordering.
Quality Assurance
Gates applies OE system design experience to the DriveAlign Premium OE Automatic Belt Tensioner line, with manufacturing controlled to rigid tolerances and specifications for OE fit, form, and function. This Gates 38776 tensioner is built to meet the dimensional and performance expectations of the listed Subaru Forester applications.
| Brand | Gates |
|---|---|
| Part Number | 38776 |
| Position | DriveAlign Premium OE Automatic Belt Tensioner |
| Material | Plastic |
| Pulley 1 Flanged | No |
| Bearing Bore Inside Diameter | .67 |
| Bearing Bore Inside Diameter | 17 |
| Grade Type | Oe performance |
| Mounting Hole Quantity | 2 |
| Belt Type | V-ribbed |
| Pulley Quantity | 1 |
| 9836 | Smooth/backside |
| Contents | Tensioner assy. |
| Outside Diameter 1 (in) | 2.75 |
| Outside Diameter 1 (mm) | 70 |
| Pulley 1 Groove Quantity | 0 |
| Width 1 (in) | 1 |
| Width 1 (mm) | 25 |
This part fits 6 vehicles. Search below:
| Year | Make | Model | Liters | Cylinders | Fuel Type | Position | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 2024 | Subaru | Forester | 2.5L | H4 | GAS | N/A | DriveAlign Premium OE Automatic Belt Tensioner |
| 2023 | Subaru | Forester | 2.5L | H4 | GAS | N/A | DriveAlign Premium OE Automatic Belt Tensioner |
| 2022 | Subaru | Forester | 2.5L | H4 | GAS | N/A | DriveAlign Premium OE Automatic Belt Tensioner |
| 2021 | Subaru | Forester | 2.5L | H4 | GAS | N/A | DriveAlign Premium OE Automatic Belt Tensioner |
| 2020 | Subaru | Forester | 2.5L | H4 | GAS | N/A | DriveAlign Premium OE Automatic Belt Tensioner |
| 2019 | Subaru | Forester | 2.5L | H4 | GAS | N/A | DriveAlign 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:
Cross-reference numbers are provided for identification purposes only. Always confirm fitment before ordering.