Rick's Free Auto Repair Advice

Posts Tagged: timing belt

Timing Belt versus a Serpentine belt — What’s the difference

Timing belt versus a Serpentine Belt — Different Belts for Different Jobs People often confuse a timing belt versus a serpentine belt. They’re both belts. They both get their rotational force from the crankshaft and use that force to drive other components. But that’s where the similarities end. A serpentine belt’s primary purpose is to rotate driven components like the alternator, AC compressor, Power steering pump, etc. Those driven components don’t have to be driven in time with the crankshaft. If a serpentine belt slips, there’s no harm, no foul. … Read More

Timing belt replacement is critical to the life of your engine

Delaying a timing belt replacement can destroy your engine Your owner’s maintenance guide lists a time and mileage figure for timing belt replacement. They’re not kidding about this. Most engines are interference engines that will self destruct if the timing belt fails while the engine is running. Why is it so important to do a timing belt replacement on time A timing belt operates in a hot environment and transfer a lot of torque from the crankshaft to the camshafts. Over time and mileage, cracks develop and the cogs can … Read More

When to replace a timing belt

Why you must replace a timing belt on schedule If your engine is an overhead cam design it most likely uses a timing belt to rotate the camshafts. Timing belts don’t last forever and you must replace a timing belt according the car maker’s maintenance schedule. Replacement intervals vary by car maker and engine style, but can last from as little as 60,000 miles to as long as 110,000 miles. When to replace a timing belt Replace a timing belt when: • You reach the time and/or mileage replacement interval … Read More


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