The timing belt is an elementary part that helps other important parts to make the engine work in a synchronized manner, when some of them are out of harmony due to a faulty timing belt, the engine can suffer serious consequences. What is the timing belt and when should it be changed?this vital component must be replaced when it shows some symptoms, but it is best to follow the manufacturer’s recommendations.
What is the timing belt?
The timing belt is a component of an engine of internal combustion that is in charge of synchronizing the rotation of the crankshaft and the camshaft. Its main function is to allow the closing and opening of engine valves at the correct time during the intake and exhaust process of each cylinder. It also activates the Water Pumpthe oil pump and the injection pump.
The Timing belt is made of rubber, in its design it has hard teeth that interlock with the crankshaft and camshaft sprockets, it also synchronizes the movement of the crankshaft and camshafts. This ensures that the engine’s intake and exhaust valves open and close at the same time as the pistons. When the crankshaft and camshafts do not work at the same time, the car does not run well as a result.
If the intake valves open too soon, there is a risk that too much combustion mixture and air will flow into the engine chamber, generating poor combustion and loss of power. It can also happen that the combustion chamber loses pressure and loses power. When engine components are out of sync, they can rub against each other and become damaged, repair is too expensive.
Timing Belt vs. Timing Chain
Depending on the car model, indicates that it has a timing chain instead of a timing belt. The timing chain has the same function as a belt, The difference is that this one is metal. Timing belts have been designed to be lighter and quieter, which is why they are very famous after being introduced to the market from 1960.
Due to the best of the design they offer a long life, many modern vehicles use timing chains. A car with a timing chain instead of a timing belt may be able to last longer before the timing chain is replaced. It is best to consult the owner’s manual.
When to replace the timing belt?
Ideally, replace the timing belt at the mileage indicated by the car manufacturer. Each manufacturer is different, however, it is best to replace this part every 60,000 miles (96,569 kilometers) or 100,000 miles (160,900 kilometers). always recommended consult the car owner’s manual.
It is important to highlight that the timing belt is made of rubber, so it suffers wear and tear with use and time, it is possible that it breaks. When it reaches the end of breaking, the motor stops working or the parts will be out of sync, this will seriously affect the motor.
By not replacing the timing belt on time, the engine can fail with bent or broken valves., cylinder head or camshaft damage and piston and cylinder wall damage. It is best to replace this component as indicated in the manufacturer’s maintenance plan, it will avoid major expenses in repair or replacement of the engine.
8 signs that indicate that it is time to replace the timing belt
There are usually no warning signs before a timing belt breaks. However, he knows some symptoms that show that it is time to do it:
- Decrease in engine power
- excessive heating
- Vibrate or tremble
- Failure to start the car
- squeaks or noises friction belts
- Ticking noise originating from the engine
- Oil leak
- check engine light
It is also recommended that while the car is being serviced, you can take the opportunity to replace the water pump. This part usually has a similar useful life, it is easily accessible when the timing belt is not working.
Timing belt repair and replacement
The function of replacing the timing belt is an expensive service. It is a complicated and delicate activity that can be carried out from 4 to 8 hours, depending on the car model. However, replacing the timing belt before it breaks prevents engine damage.
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