Wear of the timing belt - this is the case when the failure of only one unit leads to serious consequences for the engine. In this article, we've collected tips to help you extend the life of your timing belt and avoid costly repairs.
What can cause breakage
Service workers will tell you a lot of reasons for wear and breakage of the belt. We present here six main:
Contamination with oil and other substances. Oil (especially in combination with dust), antifreeze, solvent, cleaning agents — all this has a devastating effect on the structure of rubber.
Wear of the pulley. Worn or damaged pulley will cut the belt, which sooner or later will lead to its breakage.
Error when selecting the degree of tension. Too strong or weak tension increases the load on the cord, leading to premature wear.
Improper storage of the belt. If the timing belt is stored in a bent position for a long time, it causes deformation of the cord and accelerates wear.
No protective casing. Without special protection stone caught in the belt drive, will provoke its breakage.
Carelessness during installation of the timing belt. Careless master can damage the pulley or the transmission itself, and this will inevitably reduce its working life.
How to extend the life of the timing belt
An experienced driver adheres to several rules that will save him from unpleasant surprises associated with the breakage of the belt.
1. Check the status of the belt drive is necessary for each planned MAINTENANCE.
2. When running 60,000 km, a new belt with tension rollers and guides must be installed.
3. The slightest signs of a defect-a reason to think about replacing the transmission.
4. It is necessary to avoid contact with the belt transmission of foreign substances that can damage the rubber or cause it to slip.
5. Trust the installation of the timing belt can only be experienced masters in the service, which is trustworthy.
6. When tensioning the belt, it is important to follow the manufacturer's recommendations.
Follow these rules, give preference to licensed products, and the timing belt will not give you trouble.