Written by Moore Good Ink
What is it that would persuade Lamar Walden to enter the serpentine drive business? He succeeded in building an image so favorable—the definitive authority on the Chevrolet 409—that his engine shop has been a dynamo of energy for over forty years.
“Well, our local specialists, Concept One, don’t make a serpentine kit for the 409, so I looked at a couple of others brands. After installing one kit my customer barely made it out of our driveway before the serpentine system destroyed the water pump—it was turning way too fast. And on the second occasion a freeze plug was blown out of the block! But it was belt squeal under acceleration and the lack of options that finally put us in the serpentine belt business.”
Here is news of Lamar Walden’s new belt systems for the desirable W engine—the 409.
Doraville GA: Lamar Walden has taken the initiative and unveiled a new series of serpentine belt systems to suit Chevrolet 409 high-performance engines. Importantly, it is the first serpentine system available for aluminum 409s.
Though all the kits have an effective spring-loaded idler to avert belt squealing, it is the options available that are, perhaps, the most appealing. The full kit includes the A/C compressor, power steering pump, alternator, and high-flow water pump. In addition it contains all necessary pulleys, brackets, Gatorback belt and accessories. “However, most of our performance guys,” says Lamar, “particularly those that run at the track, don’t use the A/C compressor or power assist on the steering.”
In addition to the wide range of options, attention has been paid to proper pulley gearing particularly the water pump, which can fail if turned to excessive speeds. “Creating a new serpentine belt system is a craft,” contends Lamar; “It pays to study the problems before you start.”
Manufactured from billet aluminum 6061-T6 and finished in either machine satin or polished, prices start at $1,495. An optional SFI-approved harmonic balancer is also available.
For further information contact:
Lamar Walden Automotive
6- B Steve Dr.
Doraville, GA. 30340
Tel: (770) 449-0315
www.LamarWaldenAutomotive.com
Message what is the price of a full serpentine belt system for a 409?
I have one of your drive kits on a 409 and the belt squeals with the A/C on if you’re turning from the load of the P/S pump. Is it feasible to increase the tension on the idler without having a shorter belt? Thanks.
Steve,
Give us a call at the shop (770) 449-0315 x301, and we can determine the matter with your system. We are open Monday through Friday.
Thanks,
Rob Walden
I purchased the Serpentine system for my 409 / 509 and have run it for 138 miles, but the power steering pump is running over pressure, and it blew the seals on a new 605 steering box. The fluid is grey in color.
The steering box has been rebuilt again, but before we re-connect the lines and flush the system, I would like to make sure we have the correct ports on the pump for intake and the pressure side to the box. If you could confirm this for us it would be appreciated. Also, could you give us a price for a new pump and advise its availability?
Finally, does this system require a pressure-reducing valve on the discharge side of the pump? Incidentally, the 509 engine is in a 1955 Chevrolet Pro Street, and so far it runs great. We did use the Hilborn electronic fuel injection system.
Lloyd,
I tried to reach Rob Walden, Lamar’s knowledgeable son, about the matters you’ve raised but I failed. However, do try to make contact with him at the business number listed above (Ext.301) or via his mobile phone (678) 427-2255.