In
most cars, the timing belt is a crucial component of the internal combustion
engine (some have a timing chain). This is in charge of making sure the
camshaft and crankshaft are spinning simultaneously.
In
this manner, the engine's valves will operate according to schedule. The intake
and exhaust strokes of the engine's cylinders should coincide with how the
valves operate.
The
strong rubber and nylon-reinforced cords that make up a timing belt are its two
major components. Numerous pulleys and gears are constantly in touch with the
belt.
The
belt eventually becomes too loose as a result of wear and tear. Because of
this, a timing belt tensioner is employed to keep the belt in place.
It
will essentially be like having a faulty timing belt if the timing belt
tensioner malfunctions because it won't be able to perform its intended job.
Your engine will have a variety of issues as a result, including poor
performance.
You
should be sure to replace your timing belts and chains along with any
tensioners according to the manufacturer's schedule for doing so. In order
to schedule your timing belt kit replacement before it becomes too loose
or breaks, you can search online for vehicle service near me
garages. If the timing belt/chain does snap, in such case, a complete engine
replacement is what you'll probably be looking to do.
Here
are five of the most typical indications that your timing belt tensioner needs
to be replaced. It may be time to change your tensioner if you observe more
than one of these:
1.
Check Engine Light - The timing of the valves
will be off if the timing belt is loose as a result of a defective tensioner,
which would trigger the check engine light. The check engine light will then
turn on the dashboard, indicating that there are issues with the engine. Since
the check engine light by itself can indicate a myriad of problems, you could
use a car diagnostic tool to scan for any fault codes and validate
the problem. Have the engine management light issue identified and required
repairs made before scheduling your next MOT testing service
to avoid a failure.
2.
Knocking Sounds - The timing belt will start
to knock around and hit the timing cover and other components inside the timing
cover when it becomes loose. If the sound does not exactly resemble knocking,
it can sound more like slapping. If you start to hear this sound, search online
for car services
near me garages and book your car in as soon as you can with a
competent mechanic fully diagnose and repair the issue.
3.
Engine Not Turning Over - The camshaft and
crankshaft are not synchronised due to a loose timing belt caused by a broken
tensioner. You won't be able to ignite the combustion of the fuel and air in
the chamber as a result. The vehicle won't start when you turn the key in the
ignition, yet the engine might begin to sound.
4.
Grinding Noises - The pulleys themselves
will generate grinding or rattling noises if the timing belt doesn't have a
tight grasp on them. This will undoubtedly occur if the pulley bearing fails.
5.
Engine misfires - An engine misfire is
caused when the cylinder's valves open or close too quickly. If the timing belt
is unable to move both the crankshaft and camshaft simultaneously, this will
occur. Check your car's MOT
status and repair this problem before your next MOT test to prevent
failing the emissions test.
A Timing Belt Tensioner's Lifespan
The
manufacturer may not have specified a suggested change interval for the
tensioner, unlike the timing belt itself. The timing belt should typically be
replaced between 75,000 and 100,000 miles, and in almost all cases, the timing
belt tensioner should be replaced at the same time.
While
the tensioner's lifespan is really considerably greater than the timing belt's,
you'll save a lot of money in the long run if you replace it together with the
water pump when you change the timing belt. This is because the tensioner is
frequently fairly difficult to access.
Comments
Post a Comment