Timing Belts
The timing belt is a toothed rubber belt. Its main purpose is to keep the crankshaft, aux shaft, and camshaft(s) in time with one another. It is critical if your engine is going to run, as an engine out of synchronization will lack compression, and as a result the ignition will misfire.
Questions & Answers
1. If my timing belt breaks, what is the big deal? Don’t they break all the time?
2. What is the worst that can happen if my timing belt breaks?
3. How often should I change the timing belt?
4. Should I do anything else when replacing time belt?
5. Do I need to make an appointment or can I just walk in?
1. If my timing belt breaks, what is the big deal? Don’t they break all the time?
Yes, but it will cause your engine to quit, right away. Furthermore, unlike a water pump belt, it takes much longer to replace a timing belt, and is a highly specific part which you are unlikely to find at your average auto parts store. For the real reason you should replace it early on.
2. What is the worst that can happen if my timing belt breaks?
The biggest issue with failed timing belts is the damage that can follow. When a timing belt fails, the cams quickly spin to a stop, and the pistons keep going. If any of the valves stop in the down position the piston will come up and deliver it a terrible whack. At minimum, this means bent valves, and at its worst can knock a hole in the piston. Or, if the belt breaks at high revs, the shattered bits of Valve will bounce around in the combustion chamber, beating the cylinder head to death causing a head job at minimum.
3. How often should I change the timing belt?
It all depends on the car maker recommendation, on average it needs to be replaced every 60 K miles in most cars. If you have no knowledge of the last replacement date/mileage on your car, then go ahead and replace it. It is better to be safe than sorry.
4. Do I need to align my tires after the shocks/struts have been replaced?
When having the timing belt replaced, take a good look at your Crank, Aux, and Cam seals. If they show any signs of leakage, replace them as well. If your Engine leaks at these seals, the oil will soak the rubber Timing Belt and cause it to fail far sooner than the recommended interval. Also, take a close look at the tensioner bearing. If it seems loose, noisy, or suspect in any way, replace it.
5. Do I need to make an appointment or can I just walk in?
Yes you can call us at 425.774.4646 to make an appointment or click here to email us.