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Understanding Timing Belt Maintenance


 

To avoid timing belt failure and related engine damage, talk to your customers about the importance of timing belt maintenance. These facts and figures will give you all the data you need to keep your customers up and running.

On average, should be replaced at 90,000 miles. *Always refer to manufacturer’s suggested replacement interval.

Inspecting the timing belt can save 1000s of dollars in repairs.

The number 1 cause of wear is heat.

Four basic components of a timing belt are the belt, idler pulley, idler sully, tensioner and water pump.

Use diagrams to explain the importance of timing belt maintenance.

An important consideration remains: How much work is involved in getting to a timing belt? Other engine maintenance, such as water pump repair, coolant replacement and the examination of other belts and components, are the best opportunities for technicians to evaluate the timing belt.

A defective timing belt cover can let oil, water or dust in – Repair ASAP.
Warning signs include noises like grinding, knocking and squealing. These noises can indicate high or low belt tension, a defective bearing, or misalignment.

If a belt is visible, inspect it at every oil change. Detect misalignment, tooth separation, and/or “shiny” belt. Look for cracks. Understand current mileage of the vehicle and service history of the timing belt drive system.