Quote:

JB,...matched sets are still available, most parts store dummies have no clue what a matched set means,....when a belt is made, it starts life as a long tube that gets turned (cut) in to the desired V rating (width and profile) numbers are stenciled along the belt in a progressive series along the width, ...example 33345 and 33346 are matched, 33345 and 34478 are not, it was cut further down the tube, which may be smaller or wider in diameter,....the BS line that all belt are now built to exacting standards is BS,....find a parts store that can supply your request



May be the case with some but not with Gates.Just went through the same thing.
What I was told:

All of our v-belts a formed ground (cut) and are within 1/,1000 of inch tolerance from each other. When the dealer told you all belts are matched, he was telling the truth. With that said, a few years ago we changed the design of the inside cogs of the belts. Please see if the cogs match each other. You will also see a code in red ink on the belt (example:238SS). That tells the run date and location. If those numbers are close or the same, that means the belts were mfg on the same spool.

Regards,
DAVID SLATER
Territory Sales Manager
Gates Automotive / Heavy Duty Aftermarket