Took my aircon out the other week with no real dramas. Went under the bonnet today and found the fan belt frayed quite badly at the front (2 grooves deep shredded away). The cover is off due to the second fixing bracket being on the aircon pump but checked and nothing is rubbing.

The belt has been on the car as long as I've had it (6-years) and wouldn't surprise me if it was fitted at the factory. I'm putting it down to age and that fact it was disturbed when I removed the alternator to get to some of the bolts for the aircon pump and I've ordered the replacement, but has anyone else had any issues with the fan/drive belt after removing the aircon pump

 

Removed mine and no issues at all with it.

 

Never had, or heard of a problem. Until now..........

Replace it, but keep a close eye.

 

That's the plan, in over 20 years of driving not even had a snapped belt

Maybe need some new pulleys, red anodised lightweight ones