Timing Belt Replacement

Timing belts are tightened rubbers that are used to ratio the drifting of the camshafts and crankshafts in engines with internal combustions. It also helps maintain and synchronize the crankshaft and camshafts that allows cars to function more properly. These belts open and close the valves at the right time, keeping the valve motion consistent to its piston position. Many drivers today opt for timing belts because of their reasonable market value and their flexible performance that contribute to a better overall car performance.

There are actually two types of engine:

1. The interference

The timing belt for interference engines have to be functioning well at all times in order to keep the piston away from crashing into the open valve. Usually when the piston crashes into the open valve, major engine damage occurs. In addition, it also does damage to the valve of the engine and breaks the piston apart.

2. Non-interference

Timing belt replacement is highly encouraged for non-interference engine with defective timing belts. A faulty timing belt can cause major engine damage impairment that can stop the engine from operating totally.

The expected life span of timing belts are at least 60,000 miles, but there are few designs that can actually last longer than this. Car owners who will perform manual timing belt replacement should be in accordance to their manufacturer’s advice.

Timing belts can stop functioning without giving any early warnings, which is why constant checking and changing should be done regularly to protect the car’s engine from suffering from serious damage. Timing belt replacement is an importance task that should be done on a regular basis. If you want to do the timing belt inspection and replacement at home, here’s how you can do it.

1. First step is to check the car’s manual for the recommended timing belt life span. Timing belts usually last around 50 – 70,000 miles.
2. Next step is to locate the timing belt and examine its condition. Check for its break, damage, looseness and shabby spots.
3. Examine the belt for damage teeth that is usually caused by foreign materials.
4. Verify the damage area of the belt. Timing belt with single-side damage are usually caused by timing belts manual.

Here is how you replace the timing belt in your car

1. Unfasten first the negative cable battery of the car.
2. Remove the wheel cover and inner splash shield, the timing belt, the cars driving accessories and the crankshaft pulley including the tensioner.
3. Remove also the spark plugs and idler pulley if there are. Some car models require the crankshaft be twisted to TOC or Top Dead Center and the crankshaft peg be inserted.
4. Twist the shaft against the timing peg.
5. Lift the timing belt cover away from the engine and align the crank and the camshaft timing indicator.
6. Release the tensioner bolt and aim 14 degrees to the right. Place a 1/8 inch drill bit in the opening right after releasing the bolt for security.

A timing belt is a toothed belt which is a part of an internal combustion engine, which controls the time durations of the engine valves. This belt connects a crankshaft with a camshaft, which thereby controls the opening and closing of the engine valves. Read More