There are some vital parts in the engines, which are the heart of internal combustion vehicles. One of these parts is the timing belt, which is also known as "timing belt", "camshaft belt". The timing belt is one of the parts that need to be checked and replaced at regular intervals, as it may cause irreparable malfunctions in the engine if it is damaged or broken. So, what is the timing belt that is so critical to our vehicles? What does the timing belt do? Let's examine together the features of the timing belt and what to do when problems such as breakage are encountered.
What is a Timing Belt?
The timing belt, which provides the opening and closing of the valves by transmitting the movement of the crankshaft to the camshaft, has many important responsibilities. One of them is engine coolant. The timing belt moves the circulation pump in many car models, allowing the engine coolant to move smoothly through the cooling system. That is, it gives both the camshaft and the water pump the movement they need to turn. At this point, it should not be forgotten that while transferring the movement, it proceeds according to a certain order.
After the crankshaft and camshaft gears are aligned, the timing belt is inserted into the notches on these important shafts. It is determined by the manufacturers according to which intervals it will be installed, that is, how the belt and shafts will be aligned. When this alignment is adjusted correctly, it is ensured that the valves are opened and closed at the right time. Finally, timing belts are usually produced as a composite structure of rubber and steel wire/cloth belt material. In addition, there are new generation versions of timing belts made of special and durable materials such as kevlar, aramid and carbon fiber.
What Happens If The Timing Belt Breaks?
We have mentioned above that a certain way is followed while the timing belt is being attached to the system. Disruption of this order will result in engine damage or improper operation. On the other hand, the breaking of the belt causes the results of this irregularity to be realized at the highest level. Causes serious damage to the engine.
As a result of the timing belt breaking;
- First there is a commotion, then the engine stops
- Valve timing is broken
- Valves that are out of timing stay open when they should be closed
- Pistons strike open valves
- Valves bend as a result of the pistons hitting
- Pistons are also damaged by knocking valves
- In the cylinder head and combustion chambers, damage occurs due to the broken and crashing parts.
- Strains due to contraction occur in all parts of valves and pistons.
- All damaged parts need to be replaced and/or treated
- In short, the engine needs to be overhauled.
What To Do When The Timing Belt Is Broken
Timing belt failure symptoms actually show themselves right away. After the break, the vehicle does not start. At this point, you may wonder what will happen if the timing belt breaks while driving. If you park your vehicle immediately to the right, you can usually see the ends of the belt or parts of the broken belt when you open the hood. Apart from that, different sounds from the engine and black smoke from the exhaust are usually a sign of a problem with the timing belt. Although all this is the answer to the question of how to understand if the timing belt is broken, you may need to know your car closely to understand that it has broken.
As soon as the said signs are received, the vehicle is pulled to the right, the engine is stopped and the roadside assistance teams are informed. The engine is not forced to start again. Thus, the fittings are spared from heavy damage. In short, you should regularly maintain the timing belt, which is vital for your vehicle, and be informed about what to do in case it breaks.
When to Change the Timing Belt?
The timing belt is among the parts that change periodically. With timing belt replacement, it is ensured that the service life of the vehicle is extended and the engine remains healthy. These two issues, which are of critical importance for vehicle owners, immediately come to mind; “How many kilometers change the timing belt?” or “How long is the timing belt life?” It raises questions like:
The life of the timing belt is determined in two different ways. These are the duration of use and the distance at which it is used. Although it varies depending on the brand and model, the average usage period of a timing belt is 3 years. Once this time has elapsed, the timing belt needs to be replaced, even if there is no obvious damage. Many car owners wonder, "How many thousand times does the timing belt change?" The answer to the question is an average of 100 thousand kilometers.
If you are driving, at least once in your life, “Vehicle belt broke!” You've heard the phrase. The belt here refers to the timing belt. Timing belt breakage, which is a common problem especially in old vehicles, poses serious problems. So why does the timing belt break?
The biggest reason for timing belt breakage is if it is not regularly checked and replaced. If the crankshaft, camshaft and valves, which act as a link in a chain, and the timing belt break without being renewed over time, all these parts will be damaged simultaneously and cause irreversible problems to the engine.
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