What causes a timing belt to stretch?
Rubber stretches when it gets warmer and then contracts as it cools again. Extremes of hot and cold can cause the rubber to develop minor cracks in the outer surface of the belt. This can cause the timing belt to need replacing faster.
Can timing belts stretch?
Timing belts keep the valves, pistons, and other internal engine parts properly synchronized. The good news about timing belts is that they have very minimal stretch over their life, which means there is no need for periodic adjustments. The bad news is that they eventually will weaken and break.
What are the symptoms of a stretched timing belt?
Symptoms of a Bad or Failing Timing Belt
- You Hear A Ticking Noise Coming From The Engine.
- Your Car’s Engine Won’t Turn Over.
- You Notice An Oil Leak Near The Motor.
- You Experience Exhaust Issues.
- Your Revs Start Acting Up.
How tight should a timing belt be?
Timing belt installation should be a snug fit, neither too tight nor too loose. The positive grip of the belt eliminates the need for high initial tension. Consequently, a belt, when installed with a snug fit (that is, not too taut) assures longer life, less bearing wear and quieter operation.
Can a timing belt be replaced with a timing chain?
The timing belt is commonly found in cars and SUVs with smaller displacement engines. When an engine has a larger bore and stroke, most automotive manufacturers utilize a timing chain system that replaces the rubber belt with a metal chain. Generally, timing chains last longer than timing belts, with some rated to last the lifetime of the car.
Can a bad timing belt cause engine damage?
However, if the issue is due to the timing belt being broken, it may also result in other internal engine compartment damage. In many cases, the timing belt will break while the engine is running.
What happens when a timing belt goes slack?
Basic Failure. Timing belt failure comes in three flavors: stretching, worn teeth and snapping, generally in that order. All timing belts stretch, and most of that stretch occurs about 15 minutes after installation. A spring-loaded tensioner keeps the belt tight, but after a while the tensioner will run out of travel and the belt will go slack.
What are the signs of a stretched timing chain?
Signs of a Stretched Timing Chain Backfiring. If your engine backfires, it could be due to a loose timing chain. This is often a sign that your timing… Power Loss. If your vehicle loses power, without warning, your timing chain might be loose. Rough Running. If you notice your engine running