Professional Stretch Belt Installer & Remover Tool - Universal Automotive Repair
Lisle 59370 Stretch Belt Remover / Installer Review
The Simple Tool That Saves Time, Belts, and Frustration
Introduction: A Small Tool With a Big Impact
If you have ever worked on modern automotive accessory drive systems, you already know that stretch belts can be both a blessing and a curse. On the one hand, they reduce the need for tensioners and simplify engine design. On the other hand, removing and installing them without damage can be a real headache if you do not have the right tool.
This is where the Lisle 59370 Stretch Belt Remover / Installer comes into play. Designed specifically for stretch belt applications, this compact, one-piece tool promises to make belt removal and installation faster, safer, and far less stressful. At a very reasonable price point, it positions itself as a must-have for both DIY mechanics and professional technicians.
In this in-depth review, we will break down everything you need to know about the Lisle 59370, from its unique design and magnetic faces to its real-world performance. By the end, you will know exactly whether this tool deserves a spot in your toolbox.
What Is the Lisle 59370 Stretch Belt Remover / Installer?
The Lisle 59370 is a combination tool designed to remove and install stretch belts used on many modern accessory drive systems. Unlike traditional V-belts or serpentine belts that rely on tensioners, stretch belts are installed under tension and require special handling to avoid damage.
Lisle, a trusted name in automotive specialty tools, engineered this tool to address that exact challenge. The result is a simple yet effective solution that helps prevent belt stretching, tearing, or pulley damage during service.
Quick Product Snapshot:
Product Name: Lisle 59370 Stretch Belt Remover / Installer
Category: Tools & Home Improvement
Price: $21.26
Material/Finish: Silver (metal construction)
Included Components: Tool only
Patent: US9057422B2
Why Stretch Belts Require a Specialized Tool
Before diving into the features, it helps to understand why a tool like this is necessary.
Stretch belts are designed to be installed once and maintain proper tension without a mechanical tensioner. While this design reduces parts and potential failure points, it also means improper installation can permanently damage the belt.
Common problems when using improvised methods include:
Overstretching the belt
Nicking or tearing belt ribs
Chipping or damaging pulleys
Uneven seating that leads to premature belt failure
The Lisle 59370 exists to eliminate these risks by providing a controlled, guided way to roll the belt on or off the pulley.
Key Features and Benefits
1. Combination Removal and Installation Tool
One of the biggest advantages of the Lisle 59370 is that it handles both removal and installation. There is no need to buy separate tools or improvise with screwdrivers or pry bars.
Why this matters:
Saves money by combining two tools into one
Reduces clutter in your toolbox
Ensures consistent technique for both processes
Whether you are taking off a worn belt or installing a brand-new one, the same tool gets the job done safely.
2. Unique Magnetic Faces for Secure Placement
The standout feature of this tool is its magnetic faces, which help hold it securely against the pulley during use.
Benefits of the magnetic design:
Keeps the tool firmly in place
Reduces slippage during installation
Allows for better control with one hand
Minimizes the risk of accidental damage
This feature is especially helpful in tight engine bays where space and visibility are limited.
3. Compact, One-Piece Design
The Lisle 59370 is a single, compact piece with no moving parts, hinges, or detachable components.
Why this design works so well:
Nothing to lose or misplace
Extremely durable with fewer failure points
Easy to store in small tool drawers or bags
Quick to grab and use
Its simplicity is one of its greatest strengths.
4. Front or Back Side Pulley Use
Another thoughtful design element is the ability to use the tool on either the front or back side of the pulley.
Practical advantages include:
Greater flexibility across different engine layouts
Easier access in confined spaces
Works on a wide range of vehicles and applications
This versatility makes it suitable for many stretch belt systems found on modern cars.
5. Helps Prevent Belt and Pulley Damage
Perhaps the most important benefit is how effectively the tool prevents damage.
By guiding the belt smoothly onto or off the pulley, the Lisle 59370:
Reduces stress on belt fibers
Prevents uneven stretching
Protects pulley edges
Extends belt lifespan
Considering the cost of replacement belts and the labor involved, this alone can justify the purchase.
Real-World Performance and Ease of Use
In real-world applications, the Lisle 59370 performs exactly as advertised. The magnetic faces provide stability, while the tool’s shape allows the belt to roll on gradually rather than being forced into place.
Even users with limited experience can quickly learn how to use it effectively. There is no complex setup, calibration, or adjustment. Simply position the tool, rotate the pulley, and let the belt slide into place smoothly.
For professionals, this means faster service times. For DIYers, it means confidence and reduced risk of costly mistakes.
Build Quality and Durability
Lisle tools are known for their solid construction, and the 59370 is no exception.
Build quality highlights:
Solid metal construction
Smooth edges to avoid belt damage
Strong magnetic hold
Resistant to wear and deformation
Because there are no moving parts, the tool is likely to last for years with minimal maintenance.
Pros and Cons
Pros
Combines belt removal and installation in one tool
Magnetic faces hold the tool securely in place
Compact and easy to store
Simple, durable one-piece design
Helps prevent belt and pulley damage
Works on front or back side of pulleys
Affordable price for a specialty tool
Cons
Designed specifically for stretch belts, not traditional belts
Tool-only package, no additional accessories or case
May not fit every single belt configuration
While the cons are worth noting, they are largely limitations of the application rather than flaws in the tool itself.
Who Is the Lisle 59370 Best Suited For?
This tool is ideal for several types of users:
DIY Automotive Enthusiasts
If you enjoy working on your own vehicle and want professional-level results, this tool is a smart investment. It reduces guesswork and helps you avoid damaging expensive components.
Professional Mechanics and Technicians
For shops that frequently service modern vehicles, the Lisle 59370 saves time and ensures consistent results. Its durability makes it suitable for daily use.
Fleet Maintenance and Small Workshops
When maintaining multiple vehicles with stretch belt systems, this tool helps standardize the process and reduce belt replacement errors.
Anyone Working on Modern Accessory Drive Systems
If your vehicle uses stretch belts, this tool is far safer and more effective than improvised methods.
How It Compares to Improvised Methods
Many people attempt to remove or install stretch belts using screwdrivers, pry bars, or even their hands. While this might work occasionally, it significantly increases the risk of damage.
Compared to improvised methods, the Lisle 59370:
Offers controlled, guided belt movement
Reduces physical strain
Minimizes risk of injury
Delivers consistent, repeatable results
In short, it is the right tool for the job.
Value for Money
At $21.26, the Lisle 59370 offers excellent value. Considering the cost of replacement belts and the potential for pulley damage, this tool can pay for itself after a single use.
Its durability and versatility make it a long-term investment rather than a disposable tool.
Final Verdict: Is the Lisle 59370 Worth Buying?
The Lisle 59370 Stretch Belt Remover / Installer is a perfect example of how a simple, well-designed tool can make a big difference. It addresses a specific problem with precision, reliability, and ease of use.
Whether you are a seasoned professional or a weekend DIYer, this tool helps ensure proper belt installation while protecting both the belt and the pulley. Its compact design, magnetic faces, and dual-function capability make it a standout in its category.
Call to Action: Get Yours Today
If you work on vehicles with stretch belt systems, the Lisle 59370 is a tool you will reach for again and again. Do not risk damaging belts or pulleys with makeshift solutions.
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A small investment now can save you time, money, and frustration on every stretch belt job in the future.