Timing Belts

What is a timing belt?

The timing belt is responsible for synchronising the rotation of the crankshaft and the camshaft. The rotation of the camshaft and the crankshaft has to be in perfect time for the valves, pistons and other moving parts to work properly.

Timing belts are also called ‘toothed belts’ even if they do not directly provide camshaft timing. Here are some examples of what timing belts (toothed belts) can be used for:

• Camshaft

• Balance shaft

• Water pump

• Injection pump

• Supercharger

• Oil pump

What comes with a timing belt?

Timing belts come in different packages depending on which individual parts you need to replace. Pulleys and tensioners are not included unless you order a timing belt kit.

The parts that are included are generally shown in the stock image. The information listed with the part will show if other parts are included.

Some engines require multiple timing belts (toothed belts) and it is good practice to replace any of these belts at the same time.

How do I choose the correct timing belt?

Choosing the correct belt can be tricky. These belts are often listed with ‘compatibility notes’ that provide extra information that you need in helping select the correct belt.

Compatibility notes may include:

• Number of teeth on the belt

• What the belt is for (i.e. Camshaft, Balance Shaft, injection pump etc)

• Euro emissions rating

• Engine code

• Vehicle manufacture date (this is not the date the vehicle was registered but the date it was made

• Engine number sequence (up to or after as specific number/letter

• VIN (chassis number) sequence (up to or after as specific number/letter

What brand of timing belt should I choose?

Quality is paramount when selecting a brand to replace your timing belt. Brands such as Bosch have world renowned quality. Other brands such as Gates, INA, Febi and SKF offer long warranties showing the confidence these brands have in their quality. We would alway recommend a brand that has the longest warranty period.

How can I tell my timing belt needs replacing?

We would always recommend that you replace your timing belt in line with the vehicle manufacturers guidelines. If you are not sure when it was last changed it may be worth replacing now for piece of mind. A timing belt failure can cause significant and sometimes permanent damage to the engine.

Some of the symptoms of a failing timing belt are:

• Ticking noise from under the bonnet when the engine is running

• The engine will misfire, will not start or stalls

• A visual inspection shows cracks or splits in the belt

• The engine does not rev properly