Abstract: An endless power transmission belt body and a banded belt employing a plurality of such bodies are provided wherein each belt body comprises a tension section, a compression section, a continuous longitudinally extending load-carrying cord disposed between the sections and defined by a plurality of helically wound turns, and a platform on at least one side of the load-carrying cord with the platform having a fabric base layer and an elastomeric cord-engaging layer. The fabric base layer supports the plurality of turns in precise rectilinear alignment at any cross section along the belt body providing substantially equal load distribution in the turns promoting longer belt life and enabling winding of the cord at a comparatively large helix angle.

Abstract: An endless power transmission belt of trapezoidal cross section and made primarily of elastomeric material is provided and has a corrosion resistant cover made solely of elastomeric material. The cover when viewed in cross-section is defined by a U-shaped portion having a bight and a pair of legs extending from opposite ends of the bight with the legs terminating in outer ends and a strip disposed between the outer ends. The U-shaped portion and strip are defined as a unitary elastomeric mass which serves to isolate and shield the entire belt.