Why are timing chains used instead of gears?
Why are timing chains used instead of gears?
Even many engines where the camshaft is located in the block have gone to timing chains rather than gears mostly because they are quieter and cheaper to manufacture. However, the term timing gear has hung on and is still in common use to describe the sprockets that drive timing chains and timing belts as well.
What causes timing chain pins and plates to wear?
Going too long between oil changes and using the wrong type or viscosity rated motor oil causes the timing chain pins and plates to wear, resulting in timing chain stretch. Timing chain pin and plate wear is accelerated by contaminates in the oil, that is the reason frequent oil changes are required.
When to know if your timing chain is bad?
If driving an older vehicle, or one with close to 100,000 miles, it is recommended to look for symptoms of the timing chain going bad or failing. Since the timing chain can go bad and will need to be replaced, it is important to be able to recognize the symptoms and have it repaired before it fails completely.
What should I do to tighten my timing chain?
Tighten the chain according to your car manual’s specifications. Some chains are tensioned by adjusting either the crankshaft gear or the camshaft gear, while others have an automatic tensioner. This will vary by make and model of your car. The important thing is to make sure that your timing belt is as tight as it should be.
Even many engines where the camshaft is located in the block have gone to timing chains rather than gears mostly because they are quieter and cheaper to manufacture. However, the term timing gear has hung on and is still in common use to describe the sprockets that drive timing chains and timing belts as well.
When to call for repair on timing chain?
Of the vehicles that experience timing chain total failure, the majority are at or above the 150,000 to 175,000 mile mark. There are a few models of vehicle that experience fairly frequent timing chain guide failure, and these vehicles can call for repair within 75,000 miles. How are Timing Chain and Gear Set issues diagnosed?
When to replace timing belt and gear set?
Don’t take a chance reusing an old timing belt, chain or gear set. A high mileage timing chain that has stretched and is loose can’t maintain accurate valve timing and should be replaced if play exceeds specifications. The camshaft and crankshaft sprockets should also be replaced along with chain.
How are timing chains used in a DOHC engine?
In some engines, such as a Chevy 3.4L DOHC V6, a timing chain is used to drive an intermediate sprocket that drives two belts (one for each cam). Timing belts and chains carry a heavy load. They have to turn the cam with enough force to overcome the resistance of all the valve springs.
