For the car engine to work correctly, it needs other parts to perform certain functions. Among these pieces we have a system of chains or straps, which once placed in position, perform various functions. One of them is the Timing belt and it is what the motor depends on to stay in sync.
The timing belt makes sure that everything in the engine runs smoothly, and goes some way to keeping us safe on the road. It plays an essential role in the proper functioning of your internal combustion engine. here you will learn what is timing belt and other important aspects that every driver should know.
What is the timing belt?
The timing belt is a toothed rubber belt with hard teeth to interlock with crankshaft sprockets and camshafts. The main function of the timing belt is to rotate the crankshaft as well as the camshafts of the engine so that each of the cylinders works correctly.
timing belt controls the movements of the intake valves, exhaust valves and pistons so that the valves work at the same time as the pistons. If the crankshaft and camshafts do not work in sync, the car will not run properly.
It is usually located under a cover, which is intended to protect it from dirt, oil, and grime that is found near the engine compartment.
Why is the timing belt important?
The timing belt plays an important role in the engine by ensure that all mobile components to which it is connected work correctly and in sync. This means that it is always subject to great tension, keeping the different parts moving in unison.
If the timing belt is damaged or worn, the engine will face problems, the engine may stop and the car will stop. What’s even more problematic, is that when it does eventually break, which it will if it’s not replaced, the damage can be potentially catastrophic for your engine.
The recommended time to replace the timing belt is around 60,000 to 100,000 miles, however these intervals may be longer on newer cars.
When should the timing belt be replaced?
Quite unlike other car components such as ball joints or drum brakes, when timing belt damage begins, there are no unique warning signs. The car will run fine one moment and fail the next.
The best thing to do to prevent this from happening is perform regular maintenance from time to time and replace it according to the times suggested in the manufacturer’s manual.
If you don’t replace the timing belt in the recommended time, you could end up damaging your engine, with bent or broken valves, cylinder head or camshaft damage, or piston and cylinder wall damage.
