subject: The Advantages Of Using Timing Belts And Pulleys [print this page] Using a timing pulley and belt in motor vehicles is critical. They're important parts of your automobile's internal combustion motor application that's responsible for controlling the opening and closing of the engine valves. It's the role of the timing belt and pulley to attach the crankshaft to the camshaft and synchronise them at the proper moment to keep the engine running.
Together they give a positive drive through engaging the molded teeth in the belt to the perfectly spaced grooves on the pulley. It is the entering and leaving of the belt teeth from the pulley grooves which produces a positive drive, resulting in a smoother and quieter engine operation.
Timing belts have replaced the use of older style timing chains in the majority of vehicle types' engines that were popular throughout the 1970s and 80s. Just recently, however, timing chains have re-emerged in the market, causing a new trend of car manufacturers to go back to timing chain engine design.
The re-emergence of autos with engines using timing chains have created quite a confusion in prospective vehicle owners on the choice of engine type they should opt for.
Although it is less likely that there will ever be a precise figure on timing belts versus timing chains performance comparison, below is a list of advantages a timing belt have over a timing chain:
It gives accurate registration and timing minus the loss of high torque carrying capability
It provides top mechanical efficiency, reaching as high as 98% compared with the 91% - 98% functionality provided by a chain.
It takes away the risk of slippage through the belt's positive grip on the pulley.
There is little to zero risk of elongation as a result of wear as it's commonly rubber made from high-tensile fibres.
It maintains a quiet and clean operation as opposed to the timing chain requiring a quieting shoe for noise reduction.
Lengthened use doesn't result in power transmission inefficiency.
It resists rust, contaminants, and chemicals.
It is basically a more affordable choice as it does not require adjustments, lubrication systems, motor bases, and tensioning devices. Maintenance costs, thus, is minimal. Though timing belts are low maintenance compared to timing chains, careful monitoring of these car components still needs to be implemented. When these items are damaged or malfunction, it will have a serious impact on your vehicle's general performance.
We all have our own preferences and if you opt for a vehicle that makes use of timing pulleys and belts, ensure that you monitor their working condition to prevent car breakdowns.
