In our country, a significant part of the vehicles that appear on the market are equipped with a timing belt, although this part is essential for automobiles, it can be replaced by the chain on some vehicles in mechanical workshops.
The timing belt is a part of the car engine that is responsible for the transmission of movement from the crankshaft to the camshaftwhere the function is to open and close the valves that will allow the entry of the air and fuel mixture, in addition to the exit of the burnt gases.
Currently, a significant percentage of vehicles in our country circulate with this part.
It should be noted that the timing belt has the same function as the chain, even if its lifespan is limited, even if evolved since its creation. Let’s not forget that the chain has been reassembled in some of the new cars that are appearing on the market.
Reasons for replacing the chain with the timing belt
Experts like Italian engineer Garibaldi, on the YouTube social network channel Autotecnica TV, explained that the original chain of the automotive industry is returning to new cars. This means that high-quality engines are once again using timing chains instead of timing belts.
The part is mounted inside the engine and it is well lubricated, and the use of the chain is widespread in small engines.
Furthermore, this expert specified that the chain must be of optimum quality. It should be noted that in small engines it is preferable to install the chain instead of a timing belt.
How do you know when your timing belt needs to be changed?
To answer this question, you should know that the answer to all this can be found in the instruction manual of the car itself.
This strap is made of rubber, rubber and nylon, so these materials will age and need to be replaced.
There are several warnings that the car usually gives us that will indicate to us that the part will need to be changed in the future.
In this sense, it is possible to notice that the vehicle starts to vibrate when stationary and with the engine running. In the event that they appear cracks in the same belt or if there are abnormal noises in the transmission, this will be a clear sign that said element needs to be replaced.
When the car has difficulty starting, the timing belt may be affected.
How many kilometers should the timing belt be changed?
This is something that depends on the type of vehicle, but the average is between one hundred thousand kilometers and one hundred and twenty thousand kilometers, and you should always consult the car manual to be sure.
Let’s not forget that it is normally quite advisable to make the change when the car has been used for a decade.
Which is better, a three-cylinder engine or a four-cylinder engine?
The number of kilometers will also depend on the weather, since the climates that They are affected by the humidity of the sea or where there are extreme temperatures, these are usually where it is easiest for the timing belt itself to wear out the earliest.
Good maintenance is always necessary
What we must take into account is how important it is that the vehicle we own is always subject to proper maintenance. Likewise, it must always be a trustworthy workshop, in which we can be assured.
There is often debate as to whether it is better to contact an official or unofficial service. Once the warranty has expired, where the logic is to go see the officialIt’s a good idea to choose one that is not official, but only if it is trustworthy and works well.
Otherwise, these savings can sometimes turn out to be costly and would not be the best decision.
It should be remembered that there are unofficial workshops many mechanics who worked in official services or they even have so much experience and good work that they are competent experts in a multitude of makes and models, so if you find the right ones, your car will surely be in the best hands.
So now you know, we hope we helped you know What is better, a chain or a timing belt?. From here we wish you good luck if you bring your vehicle to your workshop and please do not leave it in the hands of the first workshop you find, you might regret it, ask your family or friends, as well as read their reviews on the internet.
