Timing Belt Replacement in Alexandria, OH
The timing belt is central to an engine’s function. It connects the crankshaft to the camshaft, ensuring the engine’s power cycle is in sync. If it’s worn out, it must be replaced on time to avoid causing the engine to go out-of-sync engine. Worse, if it breaks, it can damage other parts.
If your timing belt has gone bad, Enright Automotive can help. We do extensive timing belt replacement in Alexandria, OH. We service domestic and Japanese vehicles, notably Honda and Acura.
How Does the Timing Belt Work?
The combustion cycle is a synchronized dance of managed explosions that generate power to move your wheels forward. For this to happen, the engine releases specific amounts of fuel and air into each cylinder and then activates the mixture with a spark.
The combustion launches the piston, causing the crankshaft to rotate. The crankshaft converts the piston’s linear motion into rotation, while the camshaft controls the opening and closing of valves. The entire process must occur in exact order and within milliseconds of each other.
This is where your timing belt comes in—it’s tasked with syncing the crankshaft and camshaft. The combustion cycle will get out of sync if the timing belt is worn out or damaged. When this occurs, it can cause damage to engine parts.
Timing Belt vs. Timing Chain
Vehicles will either have a timing belt or a timing chain. These two have a similar function; the primary difference lies in their material construction. Timing belts are made of rubber, while timing chains are made of metal.
Timing belts are preferred for a quieter engine due to their rubber construction. However, they tend to break more often than timing chains.
How Often Should I Have Timing Belt Replacement?
With your engine’s performance riding on the timing belt, you must have timing belt replacement when required or as the manufacturer suggests. Most manufacturers recommend having the belt changed every 60,000 to 100,000 miles.
It’s important to stick to this schedule. That’s because there are often no indications that the timing belt is worn and on the verge of failing. In most instances, it will just snap (unlike a loose or worn-out timing chain that will rattle noisily).
Signs Your Vehicle Needs Timing Belt Replacement
Your vehicle may show some indirect signs, though, that you need to replace the timing belt and/or timing belt tensioner, including:
- Engine misfires: If the belt is loose or worn, it can cause the engine to lose its synchronization. The engine will then run erratically (that is, if it runs at all). An out-of-sync engine also explains the other symptoms below.
- A ticking sound from the engine: The timing belt’s teeth keep the camshaft and crankshaft gears in place. If the teeth have gone bad, repetitive noise is generated as the belt rotates.
- Excessive or unusual exhaust: A worn-out timing belt will overwork the engine (causing excessive fumes) or cause valves to operate incorrectly (causing unburned fuel and black smoke).
- Declining fuel efficiency: A worn timing belt can stretch. This can cause the valve timing to suffer and the engine to misfire, reducing fuel efficiency.
- Unstable engine RPMs at idle or speed: The incorrect valve timing caused by a worn timing belt can decrease compression. At the same time, this causes the combustion gases to go where they shouldn’t go during that stroke.
Nonetheless, it would be best if you didn’t wait for the warning signs. Having proactive timing belt replacement is an inexpensive way to avoid catastrophic engine damage.
What Should I Do If My Timing Belt Breaks?
If the timing belt breaks, immediately pull over and turn your vehicle off. You must do so to avoid going for an engine rebuild (which can be expensive). Again, the best solution is to have a timing belt replacement proactively.
Schedule Your Timing Belt Replacement with Enright Automotive
If your vehicle is nearing the manufacturer’s suggested interval for timing belt replacement, don’t delay. Go to Enright Automotive, and we can help you finish this in no time. We will get you in, out, and on your way as quickly as possible.
Call us at (614) 604-2806, and complete this online form. Our shop is conveniently located at 7933 Jug St., Alexandria, OH 43001.
