Developments in engines bring about new innovations in the timing system, but also new problems and different methods of maintenance. In this blog we will discuss the different types of timing chains and belts, defects and how to maintain these parts.

Types of timing products

The timing and drive of the engine can nowadays be controlled by the timing chain, timing belt or wet-driven timing belt. These types of parts all have their own advantages and disadvantages:

• Timing chain
  Advantages: With the right maintenance, a problem-free system.
  Disadvantages: Problems with the chain stretching
  
• Timing belt
  Advantages: Lubrication is not necessary. A quieter and lighter option compared to the timing chain.
  Disadvantages: Construction needs more space and needs to be maintained/replaced more often.
  
• Wet-driven timing belt
  Advantages: A combination of the advantages of the previous two options with quiet running, lower production and product costs and space saving.
  Disadvantages: Maintenance of this product is very important in order to avoid problems, for example by using the right oil and the correct maintenance interval.
  
  

Problems in the timing system

After the emergence of smaller engines, the timing chain has become more popular again. Despite the fact that the system works almost without problems with the right maintenance, annoying problems such as the stretching of the chain do occur. If the chain is very stretched, there is a chance that the camshafts will no longer have the correct timing. The fault light will come on, but the chance of the pistons hitting the valves is also increasing. The chain may even break or skip, causing major consequential damage.Problems with the timing chain can have various causes. The quality of the oil and the degree of oil contamination, such as oil diluted with fuel or condensation caused by an engine that cannot raise its temperature due to frequent short trips, play a major role. In addition, wear of other components including chain tensioners and guides is a possible cause.

The timing belt can also cause different problems, such as various forms of damage, deterioration or a broken belt. These consequences are often blamed on the use of the wrong oil, but there are several causes that can cause problems. For example, we recently read in an AMT article how the presence of fuel in the oil can be the cause of a defective timing belt. In addition to contaminated or incorrect oil, the quality of the product, damage from other components or incorrect belt tension can of course cause damage to the component or even greater engine damage.

Maintenance and precautions

The most important precaution to prevent these problems is of course maintenance. Oil should be checked and changed regularly. It is therefore advisable to change the oil on time according to the change interval. In addition, when replacing the timing chain or belt, it is always recommended to replace it as a set (according to the prescribed replacement interval), because in addition to the belt or chain, other components also have a number of kilometres to run, such as guides, idlers, tensioner pulleys and water pumps. For advice on these replacement parts, you can always contact our product specialists so that they can give you appropriate and personal advice on your task and problem.

In addition we have a wide range of products from brands such as INA, Swag, Dayco, BGA and Hepu to repair a timing system with OE quality parts. Our specialists can also put together complete sets of parts for you, so any matching products such as valves and water pumps are also added to your order.

If in doubt, we recommend that you contact our product experts. Our team is always ready to help you with your engine problems and find the right parts for your job. Together, we ensure that every timing system runs like new again!