Understanding timing belt components and how to maintain it

Timing belts are one of the most important moving parts in your engine that helps the vehicle engine run smoothly by connecting the camshaft and crankshaft. Therefore, the timing belt components  have the same importance. The crankshaft assists the pistons in moving up and down. Meanwhile, the camshaft is a rotating shaft that helps with the correct timing of the valves inside the engine to open and close.

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They drive, among other things, a water pump, a generator and a power-assisted steering pump. If any of these components stop working, your vehicle can face serious, costly problems, from loss of engine coolant to engine seizure. But luckily, hoses and belts are relatively easy to understand and maintain &#; if you know what to look for.

How does the timing belt break?

The timing belt and timing chains break more often because of a lack of understanding and maintenance. The timing belt is made of rubber, when the engine is very hot, it naturally degrades the strength and texture of the belt, resulting in the belt breaking. Therefore, the timing belt should be changed or replaced according to the manufacturer&#;s recommended maintenance schedule.

Another cause of the breakdown of the time belt component is a seizure of the water pump, which is caused by insufficient maintenance of the cooling system. When the water pump gets stuck, the gears stop instantly, which automatically causes the belt to break.

Main timing belt system components

The timing belt can cause serious problems and become more expensive if not replaced. If the timing belt breaks, the vehicle will have to be towed and can cost a lot of money. In addition, valves can bend and destroy the engine, which could lead to replacement. For proper maintenance, you need to understand the components of the timing belt kit. The main components of the timing system are:

Timing Belt

A timing belt, which is also known as a timing chain or cambelt, is a toothed belt which keeps the top half of the engine (the cylinder head and valves) aligned and synchronised with the crankshaft and pistons in the bottom of the engine. This then allows the values and pistons to move in harmony with each other.

Finf more about our timing belt kits.

Camshaft pulley

A cam pulley is part of the engine&#;s timing system used to control the speed of the camshaft, the timing belt component that controls the poppet valves responsible for the exhaust and intake of air in the cylinders. The cam pulley is pivotally connected to the timing chain to rotate the camshaft in sync with the crankshaft. This vehicle component is usually checked during a timing belt replacement to determine if it needs replacement or repair and can be replaced in high-performance vehicles that experience significant engine wear.

Keep reading: The fundamental role of the crank sprocket in the timing chain

Idler

The timing belt idler is a pulley that helps to set the timing belt in the correct position. Depending on the length and size of the engine and timing chain, there may be one or more idle pulleys in the timing belt kit. The position of the driven belt pulleys usually requires the timing belt to be guided using idler pulleys. It is used to increase the contact arc to ensure that as many teeth as possible are engaged if the high power output is to be transmitted. The idler function is to stabilize areas of the drive that tend to create unwanted vibrations.

Tensioning pulley

Depending on the design, tensioners can use hydraulic pressure and/or spring tension to properly tension the system. Various tensioning pulleys are used to create tension on the timing belt and keep it smooth as possible. They are installed from the sagging side.

• Prolonged tension changes are caused by wear and tear on the timing belt kit.

• Short-term voltage changes occur, for example, as a result of load and temperature differences.

Recommended reading: Tensioner Pulley: what is it and what it is used for?

Crankshaft pulley

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A crankshaft pulley, also known as a crankshaft sheave or harmonic balance wheel, is a grooved wheel-shaped gadget that connects directly to the crankshaft of a vehicle. The crankshaft pulley essentially converts the linear or direct motion of the pistons into rotary motion. The crankshaft pulley is usually connected to other vehicle components using an accessory belt. The crankshaft pulley drives the crankshaft components. Crankshafts are responsible for driving the wheels of the car. Crankshaft pulleys transmit torque and mechanical power or propulsion through the pulley system to additional vehicle components like the power steering pump and alternator.

Water pump

Due to the high temperatures occurring in the I.C. the engine must be dispersed to prevent damage from overheating (defective cylinder head gasket, cracked cylinder head). Liquid cooling is the preferred method in the automotive industry. The thermally loaded sections of the cylinder head and block contain channels or cooling jackets through which the coolant flows. This transfers the generated heat to the radiator, which releases it into the atmosphere. The water pump helps the coolant around the circuit, which ensures that excess heat is constantly removed.

Maintenance and replacement of a timing belt

It is very important for your vehicle to replace the timing belt at the mileage intervals recommended by the vehicle manufacturer. The recommended interval for timing belt replacement of your specific vehicle can be found in your vehicle&#;s manual.

Since the timing belts are made of rubber, they will wear out over time and eventually break. When it breaks down, the engine breaks down, components will be out of sync, and the engine will stop running. Failure to replace the timing belt or timing chain at the recommended time can result in engine failure, piston and cylinder wall damage, cylinder head or camshaft damage, and valve breakage or bending. This is not a situation in which you can confidently think, &#;If it&#;s not broken, don&#;t fix it.&#; Change the timing belt according to the manufacturer&#;s maintenance schedule so you don&#;t waste your money on engine repairs or replacements.

Some warning signs that show it&#;s time to replace the timing belt

Often there are no timing belt warning signs before it breaks. But here are some possible indicators that it&#;s time to replace the timing belt:

• Overheat

• Vibration or shaking

• Reduced engine power

• Oil and coolant leakage

• Problems with starting the car

• Squealing or rubbing belts

• Check engine light

• Ticking noise coming from the engine

While your vehicle is being repaired, DOLZ recommends replacing the water pump as well. The water pump usually has the same lifespan and is easy to access when the timing belt is removed. This way, you save your time and money on labor costs.

Our customers can count on us to provide high-quality belts at competitive prices that meet and exceed customer expectations. We pride ourselves on having a variety of quality industrial timing belts kits in stock. The range of DOLZ distribution kits has been expanded by more than 100 PN&#;s and covers more than 90% of the European vehicle fleet. Each kit has everything you need for assembly: a pump with a gasket, if necessary, bearings, a timing belt, and screws. For best timing belt solutions, contact us today.

The timing belt is an important part of your car, even though many road users have no idea what it is and what it does. Read our helpful guide and become an expert in all things timing belts.

What is a Timing Belt, and what does it do?

The timing belt is a reinforced rubber belt with teeth on one side. It connects the engine&#;s crankshaft and camshaft, ensuring the valves open and close perfectly with the pistons. In layman&#;s terms, The timing belt ensures that everything works together and none of the important engine&#;s parts hit off each other.

What&#;s the difference between a Timing Belt and Timing Chain?

There isn&#;t a great deal of difference; timing belts and timing chains do the exact same job but are made from different materials. As mentioned, timing belts are made from rubber with reinforced nylon or fibreglass, while timing chains are made of metal links. 

Timing belts are also usually found more in modern cars, while chains are found more in older cars and sporty cars.

What&#;s the difference between a Timing Belt and Cam Belt?

Nothing. Timing belts and cam belts are the same part in a car. The word &#;timing&#; comes from the belt keeping all the engine&#;s pistons in the correct timing order, while &#;cam&#; comes from connecting the engine&#;s crankshaft and camshaft. 

The terms are interchangeable, and it depends on where you are. Timing belt is the majority term in Ireland, though in England, cam belt is used more often.

How Long Does a Timing Belt Last?

There is no hard and fast rule that a timing belt needs to be replaced or will break after a certain number of kilometres, so don&#;t fall for a mechanic saying as much when you&#;re having a car serviced. 

A rough rule of thumb is anywhere around 100,000 to 160,000 kilometres. It also depends on the make and model of the car. You can just get lucky, and it can last much longer, but make sure to check the car&#;s logbook to see when the timing belt was last replaced to get a better idea, especially if you&#;ve bought second-hand.

Signs The Timing Belt Needs to be Replaced

So, what should someone look out for that could be a sign that the belt has trouble? Look out for the likes of:

• High-pitched noise: If you notice a piercing sound coming from the engine, it could be the timing belt.
• Engine misfires: A failing timing belt can cause the engine to misfire.
• Oil leaks near the timing belt: Oil leaks around the timing belt can mean the belt is weakening.
• Visible wear and tear: You cannot always see it in different cars but inspect the timing belt and look for any cracks or fraying.
• Engine won&#;t start: The engine not starting could be a hundred different things, but it could be the timing belt has broken.

Bringing the car to get serviced soon? Read our top tips on getting your car serviced. Also, learn all about AA approved servicing.

How Much is a Timing Belt Change?

It all depends on the make and model of the car, but you are looking at somewhere between &#;400 to &#;. This should include the price of the parts and the labour involved. Best to around and get a couple of prices.

What Happens if the Timing Belt Breaks When Driving?

If the timing belt breaks when driving, it will cause significant damage to the engine. As the timing belt keeps everything in sync, it means the values and pistons collide and cause bends and breaks. 

In most cases, the car will be written off as the cost of getting a specialised mechanic to repair the engine will heavily outweigh the car&#;s value. It may be worth it for more modern cars, but the timing belt shouldn&#;t be breaking if the kilometres are low.

Has your car&#;s timing belt broken while driving? AA offers Roadside Assistance. If you are broken down and not a member, call +353 1 649 , and we can get someone out to you straight away.

For more Audi Timing Belt Replacementinformation, please contact us. We will provide professional answers.