Cummins 5333499 — Genuine Accessory Drive Belt Tensioner

MPN: 5333499  |  Also Known As: serpentine belt tensioner, accessory drive tensioner  |  Function: Maintains correct serpentine belt tension to prevent slip, squeal, and premature wear.

Restore quiet, reliable belt drive operation on your first/second-gen Cummins. The genuine Cummins 5333499 belt tensioner is the OE spring-loaded assembly for 1989–2002 Ram 2500/3500 5.9L applications and B-Series industrial engines. Built to factory load and travel specs for steady tension across rpm, load, and temperature changes.

Features & Benefits

• OE preload & travel—protects alternator, water pump, A/C, and power steering from belt slip.
• Hardened pivot & premium pulley bearing for long service life and quiet operation.
• Drop-in replacement with factory clocking and alignment—no spacers or shimming.
• Reduces belt chirp/squeal and charging issues caused by weak or seized tensioners.
• Genuine Cummins quality and traceability.

Verified Fitment (Automotive)

Specifications

• Type: Spring-loaded serpentine belt tensioner assembly (with pulley)
• OE Part Number: 5333499
• Material: Cast/aluminum body with steel pulley (varies by OE run)
• Mounting: Direct to front cover/bracket; factory clocking
• Quantity Required: 1 per engine

Often Paired With

• Serpentine belt (match length to year/AC & dual-alt options)
• Idler pulley and hardware (refresh noisy bearings)
• Water pump & alternator belt-drive checks during service

What’s In The Box

• (1) Genuine Cummins Belt Tensioner Assembly (5333499) with pulley
• Mounting bolt/hardware not always included—reuse OE or source new as needed.

Installation Tips

• Use a breaker bar on the square drive to relieve tension; note belt routing before removal.
• Inspect belt and idler pulley; replace if cracked, glazed, or noisy.
• Torque the tensioner mounting fastener(s) to spec; verify belt tracks centered on all ribs.
• Start engine and confirm no squeal and stable charging voltage.

FAQ

WILL THIS FIT MY 1989–2002 5.9L CUMMINS RAM?

Yes—5333499 is widely cataloged for ’89–’02 5.9L trucks (12V VE & P7100, and 24V VP44). For industrial engines, confirm by ESN.

WHAT ARE THE SYMPTOMS OF A FAILING TENSIONER?

Squeal or chirp on startup/load, belt “flutter,” glazing, accessory undercharge/overheat, or visible pulley wobble.

DOES THIS INCLUDE THE BELT?

No—belts are sold separately. Choose the correct length for your model year and accessory configuration.

IS THIS THE SAME AS AFTERMARKET TENSIONERS?

This is a genuine Cummins OE assembly built to factory preload and travel specs for the B-Series accessory drive.

DOES IT FIT 2003+ COMMON-RAIL OR 6.7L?

Most 2003+ trucks use different part numbers. Verify by VIN/ESN if your engine or front dress has been swapped.