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Why do cars still use timing belts?
First, they are more expensive to manufacture, they can stretch over time, and require oil to keep lubricated. The main reason why they are still used is that timing chains can often handle much more powerful engines, such as high performance cars and commercial trucks.
Why is timing belt replacement so expensive?
The timing belt itself isn’t an expensive part. The time and labor are what make it so expensive. To get to the timing belt, the engine needs to be disassembled. Doing so takes significant time and effort.
Do they still use timing belts?
Does My Car Have a Timing Belt? Some car manufacturers have begun to replace the timing belts on newer vehicles with timing chains. The idea is that a chain is more durable and will last as long as the vehicle. Depending on the make, model and year of your car, you may not have a timing belt.
Is timing chain better than timing belt?
A: Timing chains are stronger than timing belts. Timing chains also last longer. Timing belts are quieter than timing chains and are cheaper and easier to replace.
When did cars stop using timing belts?
Through the 1980s, timing chains powered many overhead cam (OHC) engines. Timing belts were especially common from the mid-’80s through the ’00s, but timing chains are becoming more widespread again. Without disassembly, it can be difficult to identify what kind of timing components are in your car’s engine.
Are timing belts reliable?
They are reliable only up to a point.An engine with a timing belt will suffer catastrophic engine damage if the belt fails,(On interference engines, which most are) and fail it will if it is not replaced according to the manufacturers maintenance schedule.
Why does a timing belt replacement cost so much?
The reason a timing belt replacement costs so much is that it’s a fairly involved and advanced repair job. You have to get deep into the car’s engine to access the timing belt and as a result it takes a lot of time and effort to do so.
Do all cars have a timing belt and a timing chain?
Some do not. Some vehicles have a timing chain only. A timing chain is a different type of system doing the same thing a timing belt does. Timing chains do not need to be replaced as often as timing belts, but they do tend to be more expensive to replace if they every need servicing.
What happens if you don’t have a timing belt tensioner?
Without the timing belt tensioner then your engine would potentially be completely inoperable and useless since the timing belt can’t maintain the synchronized operation of the camshaft to the crankshaft. As simple as the tensioner is, it’s clearly an integral part of your engine and without it your car will be completely unable to operate.
What does a loose timing belt sound like on a car?
When your timing belt gets loose between gears that it connects to on the camshaft to the crankshaft it can begin to knock between the parts as well as hit the timing belt cover that keeps it secure in place. This sound can either be a steady tapping noise or even a slapping sound.