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TIMING BELT REPLACEMENT
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A timing belt (aka cam belt) is a rubber belt that works in conjunction with the rotation of the camshaft and crankshaft of your vehicle.
Consequently, the car engine’s valves close and open at the right times. The moment at which the valves open and closes influences engine performance, emissions, and fuel economy – so accurate timing is essential.
In a four-stroke engine, the crankshaft turns at double the speed of the camshaft. In other words, the crankshaft is compelled to make two revolutions in order to turn the camshaft one revolution. Linking the rotation of these two shafts, so they work in a synchronised manner, is a timing belt also known as timing chain, or cambelt.
THE FUNCTION OF A TIMING BELT
The camshaft controls the valves in your car engine to let in and out gas and air. The crankshaft operates the pistons up and down.
These two systems must work in exact unison or risk damage to the pistons, valves, engine or other nearby parts. It is the task of the timing belt to ensure that synchronisation takes place by keeping both systems turning at the correct rate.
Contrary to popular belief, rubber timing belts don’t stretch or extend with accumulated mileage and wear. They are fortified with strands of fibre glass which helps them to be virtually un-stretchable.
Over time the strands may become brittle and can start to break. In the end, the reinforcing cords come apart, the belt snaps and the engine malfunctions.
If the engine lacks adequate valve-to-piston clearance to free the wheel under such conditions, a lot of expensive damage can be caused.
CAMBELT REPLACEMENT BROMSGROVE
Car service intervals for timing belts can deviate from 10,000 miles for a basic belt tension adjustment to well over 100,000 miles for total timing belt replacement.
Modern cars can generally go 100,000 miles before the timing belt requires replacement. Older vehicles may need a replacement at 60,000 miles.
However, it is recommended replacing rubber timing belts at about 60,000 miles as preventative maintenance to prevent the kind of trouble engine breakdown can bring.
It is crucial to note that if the water pump spoils, the timing belt will normally need to also be replaced. This is because the cambelt has to be removed (more often than not) to replace the water pump.
SYMPTOMS OF A FAILING TIMING BELT
When a timing belt is worn, it may begin to slip and cause severe misfires. Unfortunately, there is no distinct sign that a timing belt is worn out.
Normally, when timing belts fail, it is not an steady decline, instead, it is a sudden incident. Once a failure happens the engine will promptly stop or lose notable power.
If your car has a chain alternatively, though, it will produce a lot of noise if it is loose.
Listed below are a few signs that may indicate that your timing belt is degenerating or has broken – which will need a certified mechanic for timing belt replacement and inspection of other internal engine parts for damage.
- Ticking Noise Emanating From the Engine
The cambelt is fixed by a series of pulleys to the engine’s crankshaft and camshaft. The crankshaft powers your engine’s connecting rods which are fixed to pistons inside the combustion chamber. The camshaft controls the cylinder valves and rocker arm connection, which directs fuel into the combustion chamber and discharges burnt gases and fuel out of the exhaust system. Once the timing belt starts wearing out, it may produce a ticking sound inside the motor. This warning symptom may furthermore be proof of insufficient oil pressure or the engine lacking the right quantity of lubrication. Because a cambelt is so essential to the working of your vehicle, if you detect this warning sign, get in touch with as soon as possible. - Engine Won’t Ignite
If your timing belt has broken, your engine will not be able to ignite. When you turn the ignition key, you will hear the starter motor engage; however, because the timing belt operates the crankshaft and camshaft, it won’t turn over. Obviously, if the vehicle won’t start, a call to a mechanic is normally the first step taken. However, if the issue is due to the timing belt, it may also create the demise of other internal engine parts. Our experienced mechanics will know how to examine all of these supporting parts during a timing belt replacement. - Engine misfires
A damaged timing belt might also influence the engine’s fire rate. The cambelt is linked to pulleys that control the crankshaft and camshaft as we’ve shown above. However, sometimes the timing belt will slip on the camshaft gear and cause one cylinder to open and close earlier than it is meant. This might cause a misfire circumstance and if not replaced soon, may cause grievous engine damage. - Oil leaking from in front of the motor
It’s also common that the engine will exude motor oil from the timing belt cover. The belt cover is fastened by a series of bolts and nuts that may come loose over a time span. Leaking oil from the belt cover commonly stems in engine overheating as well and can cause preterm wear of the timing belt.
WHAT NEXT?
Timing belts and hoses are important to keeping your car in top shape. Since the timing belts are found inside the engine, many think of them to be an out-of-sight, out-of-mind thing and are rarely seen as part of regular vehicle maintenance.
To avert the unfortunate event of the timing belt slipping or snapping, replace the belt as advocated based on your car manufacturer’s instructions.
If the belt is not replaced in time and snaps while the engine is running, the pistons will likely bend the valves, needing a head removal and an expensive replacement of engine components.
If you believe your timing belt is worn out or if you want to get a recommendation of how often you should replace the belt, get in touch with us today.
Questions? You’re covered.
While timing belt wear isn't always visible, manufacturers specify recommended replacement intervals - typically between 60,000 and 100,000 miles. Warning signs may include unusual engine noises, particularly a ticking sound from the engine bay, rough engine running, or difficulty starting the engine. However, waiting for symptoms isn't advisable as belt failure can cause severe engine damage.
A comprehensive timing belt service includes replacement of the belt itself, tensioners, and guide pulleys. Many workshops also recommend changing the water pump simultaneously since it's driven by the timing belt and accessed during the same procedure. This preventative approach can save considerable labour costs in the future.
The procedure typically requires 4-6 hours, though this varies by vehicle model. Some engines need additional components removed to access the timing belt, which can extend the service time. It's usually best to allow a full day for the work to be completed thoroughly.
In interference engines, a timing belt failure can result in the pistons colliding with valves, causing catastrophic engine damage. Even in non-interference engines, a broken timing belt will leave you stranded as the engine won't run. This makes preventative replacement crucial for maintaining your vehicle's reliability.
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