Timing Belts & Water Pumps

A timing belt, like the name implies, is responsible for keeping all of your engine’s components in sync. Without a timing belt, your engine would be like a band without a drummer, which could have disastrous, and expensive consequences.

In most internal combustion engines used today, a timing belt plays the vital role of keeping the internal parts of the engine moving in the right time. Rising in popularity in the 70’s and 80’s, replacing timing chains. The timing belt connects the engine’s camshafts to the crankshaft, which allows the valves, and pistons to operate in harmony with each other. It may also power other engine parts such as the water pump. If a timing belt fails, the symptoms can range from poor idling, to catastrophic engine damage.

Timing belts typically have a long service life, usually in the 60-90,000 mile range, but will vary from vehicle to vehicle. Consult your owner’s manual for your vehicle’s recommended service intervals, or bring your vehicle in, and we can look it up for you.

Some signs that your timing belt may need replacing are:

• Rough idle
• Poor emissions readings
• Trouble starting your vehicle
• Frayed edges of the belt
• Engine cranks over faster then normal while starting

Even if your vehicle is not showing signs of belt failure, it still should be brought in at the recommended service intervals for tension adjustment. Timing belts must be kept at the right tension to perform properly. Too loose, and they may slip damaging the engine internals. Too tight, and it places unneeded stress on the pulleys, and shafts.

Keeping your vehicle well maintained is the key to a long service life, and lower repair costs. While replacing a timing replacing other things as such as the water pump, belt tensioner, and pulleys are recommended. These parts are often inaccessible while the timing belt is on the vehicle, and would be very labor intensive to replace on their own.

If you are experiencing symptoms of timing belt failure, or are at your manufacturer’s recommended service mileage don’t delay! Waiting too long can have disastrous results. Come to Fifth Gear Automotive for your timing belt, service and replacement. Where you will get dealer like service, with independent prices.