Chemistry, action, and timing make an engine run smoothly. It all starts with a spark that makes gasoline mix with oxygen to make hundreds of tiny explosions that make the engine’s pistons go up and down. The pistons are connected to a crankshaft, which starts the rotation to make your wheels move.
The Right Timing. But none of this will work without timing. For that to happen, a timing belt is ultimately responsible for making sure that the chemistry and motion work together. In most engines, the timing belt is a long piece of rubber with teeth that regulates when the different parts of the engines move. It’s hidden behind a cover to protect it from oil and moisture. A small portion of vehicles with non-interference engines will have a timing chain. The timing belt or chain keeps your engine in sync, keeping it all working together.
Time to Change. A damaged or broken timing belt will cause major engine damage, so it’s important to replace it before you have a problem. For most engines, we recommend you change your timing belt every seven years or 100,000 miles, whichever comes first. Timing chains don’t have to be replaced until they actually break, as a broken timing chain will not hurt an engine.
Time to Call Us! Changing the timing belt is an important part of routine car maintenance. Again, your vehicle will have major damage if it’s not changed in time. If this post has made you realize that it’s time to change your timing belt, give us a call. At Norris, we change timing belts all the time. Call and let’s set up a time to change yours!