Belt-in-oil kits for fully compliant replacement procedures

Universal Parts Group (UPG) now offers the South African automotive aftermarket, recently launched Gates PowerGrip™ Belt-in-Oil (BIO) kits, designed for accurate, efficient and fully compliant replacement procedures.

“Gates Belt-in-Oil complete service kits ensure a technically precise solution for the replacement of belt-in-oil timing systems, combining original-equipment (OE) quality belts with matched tensioners, idlers, seals and fixings,” explains Chris Charles, Gates Product Manager, Universal Parts Group (UPG) – automotive, agricultural and heavy-duty after-market specialists. “Each kit is tailored for specific high-volume engine applications, supporting fast and accurate workshop servicing of modern internal combustion engines. Diagnostic tools and OE-grade components helps technicians maintain system reliability, reduce service risk and deliver consistent results for their customers.

“BIO technology, now standard in many automotive brands, replaces traditional dry belts or timing chains, with a synchronous belt that operates within the engine’s lubricated oil sump. This configuration reduces mechanical drag, improves thermal stability and contributes to enhanced fuel efficiency and lower CO₂ emissions. The oil immersion, however, also imposes stringent demands on belt construction, material compatibility and servicing procedures.

“Gates BIO kits are supplied as all-in-one boxed units containing the belt, metals and all supporting installation parts – including torque-to-yield bolts, seals and gaskets – specified by vehicle manufacturers. Unlike products from some aftermarket suppliers, these BIO kits are designed as complete service solutions, rather than standalone belt or tensioner sets. This integrated approach reduces the risk of mismatched parts, simplifies inventory management and ensures compliance with OE level maintenance schedules. Each kit is supported by a single warranty, covering all components supplied in the box.”

Every belt carries the Gates “HOB” part suffix, identifying its compatibility with belt-in-oil systems. These belts feature a specialised compound formulation that resists chemical degradation from engine oils, maintains stable tension across a wide operating temperature range and offers low elongation to ensure consistent valve timing. All associated components are engineered to OE specifications, ensuring correct fitment and performance under oil-lubricated conditions.

Crucially, correct installation of belt-in-oil systems depends not only on mechanical skills, but also on appropriate inspection and diagnostic practices. Gates supplies dedicated tools – including the GAT5249 inspection tool, which helps technicians detect signs of premature wear, belt swelling or contamination. The tool allows for in-situ inspection through the oil filler cap, without major disassembly, reducing diagnostic time while enabling preventative replacement planning.

To enhance workshop accuracy, Gates oil filters and lubricants conform to the OEM’s specification. Oil degradation, particulate contamination or overextended drain intervals can accelerate belt deterioration and compromise other engine systems, including turbocharger lubrication and variable valve timing actuators. By replacing all key components at once and verifying oil condition, workshops can significantly reduce the likelihood of follow-up failures or callbacks.

Gates BIO kits carry unique part numbers such as K02T354HOB, K03T360HOB and KP3T359HOB and are supported in Africa through UPG’s national distribution network. Full technical data, installation documentation and component breakdowns are available via the Gates online catalogue and workshop support tools. UPG also offers optional training sessions on wet belt servicing best practices.

Universal Parts Group (UPG) – comprising Autobax, Driveshaft Parts and IMEXPART UK – supplies and supports a broad range of automotive components. Apart from Gates, UPG distributes quality branded brands, including Europart, Timken, NTN, MRK, NSK, Tirsan, Gomet, Pivotal and Walterscheid, as well as APG and Spicer.

UPG’s in-house STC portfolio comprises a broad range of tensioners and idlers, wheel bearing kits, timing chain kits and oil pumps.