Timing Belt West LA

What is a Timing Belt?

A timing belt is typically constructed of rubber and is used by a vehicle to turn the camshaft during cranking. The timing belt is also responsible for maintaining valve and piston synchronization. If the timing chain is not set correctly, the chance of piston damage occurring is increased. Incorrect timing can cause engine damage that will lead to bent valves, destroyed pistons, or piston rod failure.

A timing belt is used in a combustion engine to control the timing of an engine's valves. In addition, a timing belt is used to connect the crankshaft of the engine to the camshaft and assists in the opening or closing of the valves. When cranking the engine, the crankshaft pulley turns the timing belt and causes the camshaft to move. The camshaft nodes then push the engine's valves into the correct closed or open position.

Most timing belts will need to be replaced every 50,000 to 90,000 miles and when there are cracks or noticeable wear on the belt. Most manufacturers will also suggest that the timing belt tensioner should be replaced at the same time as the timing belt. This will ensure that timing belt failure is not likely. Mechanic timing belt repair in West LA is known for efficiently getting drivers back on the road in no time and with a guaranteed-to-work belt.

A reputable timing belt repair shop will first make sure that the crankshaft is in line with the '0' mark that is found on the timing scale. Next, the timing belt tensioner is loosened in addition to the mounting bolts. With the tensioner loosened, the timing belt should slide right off and be easily removed from the engine. The new timing belt is slid back on. Furthermore, the mounting bolts and the timing belt tensioner are re-tightened to manufacturer-specified torque.

It is best to change out the timing belt in your vehicle prior to it being damaged which would result in a catastrophe. A visual inspection of your timing belt will indicate whether replacement is critical. If a timing belt is not replaced soon after the manufacturer's recommended time frame, the engine can completely break down and cause engine failure due to a snapped belt. This is a situation that drivers would not want to encounter while driving and is best to have your timing belt repaired prior to failure.