Serpentine Belt Tensioner for Volvo Penta, PCM, and Crusader 4.3L, 5.0L, 5.7L, 8.1L Engines
This serpentine belt tensioner is designed for Volvo Penta GI, GL, GXI, and OSI model marine engines in 4.3L, 5.0L, 5.7L, and 8.1L displacements, as well as V6-225, V6-270, V6-300, and V6-320 model engines. It also fits PCM and Crusader marine applications requiring proper belt tension for reliable accessory drive operation.
This tensioner directly replaces Volvo Penta 3885250 and 3587858, as well as PCM Crusader RA068001, ensuring a precise fit and restoring proper serpentine belt tension to maintain alternator, water pump, and power steering performance.
- Complete tensioner assembly with pulley for direct installation
- Fits multiple Volvo Penta, PCM, and Crusader engine families
- Restores factory-spec belt tension for all accessory drives
Part Number Cross-Reference
Use this table to confirm equivalent part numbers across OEM and aftermarket brands.
| Brand |
Part Number |
| Volvo Penta |
3885250 |
| Volvo Penta |
3587858 |
| PCM Crusader |
RA068001 |
Compatible Engine Models
Confirm your engine model/year in the table below.
| Brand |
Model |
Notes |
| Volvo Penta |
4.3L GI, GL, GXI, OSI |
V6 engines |
| Volvo Penta |
5.0L GI, GL, GXI, OSI |
V8 engines |
| Volvo Penta |
5.7L GI, GL, GXI, OSI |
V8 engines |
| Volvo Penta |
8.1L GI, GL, GXI, OSI |
V8 engines |
| Volvo Penta |
V6-225 |
V6 engines |
| Volvo Penta |
V6-270 |
V6 engines |
| Volvo Penta |
V6-300 |
V6 engines |
| Volvo Penta |
V6-320 |
V6 engines |
| PCM |
4.3L, 5.0L, 5.7L, 8.1L |
Marine engines |
| Crusader |
4.3L, 5.0L, 5.7L, 8.1L |
Marine engines |
Technical Specifications
| Specification |
Value |
| OEM Number |
3885250 |
| Replaces Volvo Penta |
3885250, 3587858 |
| Replaces PCM Crusader |
RA068001 |
| Application |
Serpentine Belt Tensioner |
| Condition |
New Aftermarket |
Package Contents
- 1 × Serpentine Belt Tensioner Assembly (with pulley)
Installation Guide
- Disconnect the battery negative terminal to ensure electrical safety during installation.
- Relieve tension on the serpentine belt by rotating the existing tensioner and remove the belt from all pulleys.
- Remove the mounting bolt securing the old tensioner to the engine block or bracket.
- Carefully pull the old tensioner assembly away from the mounting location.
- Compare the new tensioner with the original to confirm pulley size, mounting hole alignment, and arm length match.
- Position the new tensioner onto the mounting bracket and hand-thread the mounting bolt to check alignment.
- Torque the tensioner mounting bolt to manufacturer specifications (typically 30–40 ft-lbs; consult your service manual).
- Route the serpentine belt around all accessory pulleys following the belt routing diagram on the engine or in your manual.
- Rotate the new tensioner arm to create slack, then slip the belt onto the tensioner pulley last.
- Release the tensioner arm slowly to allow it to apply proper tension to the belt.
- Verify the belt is seated correctly in all pulley grooves and is not twisted or misaligned.
- Reconnect the battery, start the engine, and visually inspect belt operation for smooth, quiet running without slipping or vibration.
Troubleshooting & FAQ
Q: How do I confirm this tensioner fits my Volvo Penta or PCM engine?
A: Cross-reference your engine model (4.3L, 5.0L, 5.7L, or 8.1L GI/GL/GXI/OSI, or V6-225/270/300/320) and original part number (3885250, 3587858, or RA068001) with the compatibility table above. If your original tensioner matches these numbers, this part will fit.
Q: What are the signs that my belt tensioner needs replacement?
A: Common symptoms include squealing or chirping belts, visible pulley wobble, cracked or seized pulley bearings, belt slipping off, or insufficient belt tension causing accessories (alternator, water pump) to underperform or fail.
Q: How often should I replace the serpentine belt tensioner?
A: Inspect the tensioner annually or every 100–200 hours of operation. Replace it if you notice bearing noise, pulley roughness, weak spring tension, or whenever you replace the serpentine belt as preventive maintenance.
Q: Does this tensioner come with a new serpentine belt?
A: No, this listing includes only the tensioner assembly with pulley. The serpentine belt is sold separately and should be inspected or replaced if worn, cracked, or frayed.
Q: Is this an OEM part or an aftermarket replacement?
A: This listing is an aftermarket replacement part (not an OEM component). We build to OEM specifications using comparable-grade materials. Production is done in an ISO9002-certified facility, and each batch is inspected for consistent performance.
Q: How fast do you ship and how much does it cost?
A: We offer fast global shipping—typically 5–15 days worldwide—and standard shipping is free. Expedited options are available at checkout depending on your location.
Q: What is your warranty and return policy?
A: This product includes a 1-year warranty against manufacturing defects under normal use. If something goes wrong, contact our support team with your order details. Returns are accepted within our standard return window (unused & in original condition); please see our policy page or reach out for instructions.
Important Notes
- Verify that the product images and specifications match your original part. If discrepancies exist—even if your model is listed—do not proceed with the purchase.
- This product is an aftermarket replacement part and is not an OEM component.
- Professional installation is recommended to ensure safety and optimal performance.
Why Choose JLM MARINE?
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Quality Assured: As a trusted manufacturer for over 20 years, we supply top marine brands globally.
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Fast Global Shipping: Free delivery worldwide in 5–15 days.
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Direct from Manufacturer: Competitive pricing without compromising quality.