I'd run it but check it often to make sure it's not getting worse....

 

Good advice from all.

Much appreciated.

 

I say change it or have it changed. Not worth the worry. What is the normal life expectancy of a drive belt?

 

The rock or whatever it is, is centered on the belt which is good because it's not on the edge. Remove the object and fill the hole with epoxy or RTV to keep contaminants out and run it. If the edge of the belt was damaged then it would be time to replace it. These belts are incredibly tough and will last for many years and thousands of miles like that. It would be good idea to inspect the pulley to make sure there's no severe damage. If there are sharp edges on the pulley tooth or teeth, file them down to remove any sharp edges that could cause further damage the belt. Keep an eye on it every now and then and you will be fine.

 

I had to replace my drivebelt this past season at 70K miles and 10 years old. Dealer wanted $800. to just change the belt and $1300. to include both pulleys (which they were strongly pushing). I did it myself only doing the belt but I also had to do a shifter shaft seal so I also did other seals while I had it all torn down.

 

09 Ultra made it 115,000 mi. Belt still looked OK but the inner primary had to come off so I had the dealer replace the belt for the cost of the belt and 1 hour labor. The other work was covered by ESP.

 

At these prices, which surprised me, I would like to amend my previous post. I say run it and monitor the belt.

 

Read the service manual. It states to replace belt if a stone puncture exists on the edge of the belt to replace it. Monitor the belt to ensure cracking doesn't extend to the edges or failure is imminent. The belt will have to be replaced eventually.

 

Upon inspecting the belt it appears that the piece of metal pentetrated the belt through the top. It barely poked through the other side and even so it ended up between the teeth so no damage to the pulley.

Couldn't really grip the debris to pull it out completely but got it fairly level with the top of the belt. Got lucky with this one.

Thanks again for the replies.

 

I don't think it penetrated from the top (smooth side). There is nothing to force it through. 99% sure it fell in the belt and was pushed from the tooth side by a pulley. It probably needs to be removed in the opposite direction. Push it through from the smooth side.

Remember that screw you dropped and never found???

Could have just kicked up from the road though....