In a combustion engine, the crankshaft is located at the bottom of the engine. Meanwhile, the valves form part of the cylinder head, which as the name suggests, is on top of the engine. Valves need to open at specific times to have the fuel / air mixture to flow into the combustion chamber. The timing belt or chain connects the crankshaft with the camshaft in order to get this timing right.
Both timing belts and chains perform the same function. While belts are made from rubber, chains are produced using metal. It is generally accepted that the chains are a better solution as they last longer. Both types wear out over time though, loosing their tension.
Through the connection between the crankshaft and the camshaft, the valves are activated. The faster the camshaft turns, the faster the camshaft needs to turn in order to open and close the valves faster. In modern cars, there are mechanisms that compensate for higher speeds of the camshaft’s rotation to adjust the timing of the valves’ actuation so that the fuel is injected at just the right time for the combustion to happen. Simply put, when the engine runs at higher revolutions, the valves need to open a tiny moment earlier so that the fuel is present in the combustion chamber when the piston, also moving faster, is at the point for ignition of the fuel on time.
Should the timing belt or chain become loose, it should be replaced. To compensate the wear of this crucial component, a tensioner is often built into the assembly. Historically, the timing belt used to look like a teardrop. Nowadays, the belt or chain feature an intricate layout whereby guide plates channel the movement. Some engines have a separate belt or chain to drive the water pump, however, it has become a common design to drive the water pump and the exhaust camshaft with the timing chain as well. This makes the timing belt or chain an important part of the engine.
When the timing belt or chain wears out, the engine’s performance is negatively impacted. The timing will not be precise, the injection of fuels will not take place at the right time. German Motors’ highly trained technicians know the symptoms: rattling engines, misfiring and an unwillingness of the engine to start are the more obvious signs that the timing belt or chain is worn out. In some cars, the worn belt or chain will trigger the engine warning light to come on. Poor acceleration and metal shavings entering the lubricants are additional effects of a loose timing belt or chain.
Although either belt or chain take a while to wear out, they should be checked regularly, as part of the service performed during general inspections. Timing chains can last up to 200 000 Kilometres, however, when it is time to replace them, this should be done without hesitation. A loose timing belt or chain can impact other components, such as the water pump, and replacing the belt or chain can prevent damage to other parts of the engine. Besides, the poor acceleration and untimely injection of fuels also results in higher fuel consumption and less driving pleasure.
When the need to replace the timing belt or chain arises, German Motors will also consult with customers on any other components that may need replacement at the same time. At that time, a replacement may be considered to be preventive maintenance as a part may still be used for some time but could likely fail and may thus be replaced a little ahead of time. In connection with the replacement of the timing belt or chain, typically, the tensioners will also be replaced as the two parts are closely linked together in achieving top performance of your vehicle.
