The timing chain is an absolutely essential car part. Any vehicle that requires a timing chain will not operate without one.
Mechanically, there is no difference between a timing chain and a timing belt. Both perform the same action and are attached to the same parts of your vehicle. The difference is in the material and location within the automobile.
Timing chains Covers are far from the most expensive engine component to replace. Although depending on the make and model of the car, this figure can increase or decrease.
The timing chain normally needs to be replaced between 80,000 and 120,000 miles unless there is a specific problem. Issues with the chain are common in higher mileage vehicles. If driving an older vehicle, or one with close to 100,000 miles, it is recommended to look for symptoms of the timing chain going bad or failing.
Since the timing chain can go bad and will need to be replaced, it is important to be able to recognize the symptoms and have it repaired before it fails completely.
Signs a timing chain needs to be replaced include:
• Later model VVT applications will generate engine codes and check engine lights prior to engine rattle
• Older, pre-VVT applications will generate engine rattle
Using the wrong oil is a common symptom that causes a vehicle’s timing chain to wear even quicker. Often, modern vehicles will only be able to use synthetic oil because they must meet certain specifications to ensure the oil flows quickly, and with the proper pressure. The wrong oil can cause extra load on the chain and the engine will not be properly lubricated.
Each vehicle manufacturer specifies a minimum API oil service rating, a recommended viscosity, and often a specific oil. Improper oil viscosity can also have a serious impact on timing chain tensioner operation, variable valve timing solenoids and actuators, and direct injection fuel pump wear. In fact, using a motor oil viscosity other than the factory recommended oil can result in a check engine light and engine damage.
Composed of metal links, a timing chain runs along a set of gears to rotate the crankshaft and camshaft and regulates the opening and closing of the engine valves in coordination with the firing pistons. Since the timing chain is housed inside the engine, it receives its lubrication from the engine oil, which is essential for its smooth functions. Despite having a metallic composition, timing chains can wear off, get loose, or break due to stress.
A worn timing chain exhibits some symptoms that signify that the timing chain is not functioning properly. These signs include:
RATTLING SOUND ON STARTING THE ENGINE OR IDLING
A common finding in a vehicle with a bad timing chain is unusual rattling noise when the engine is started or when brakes are engaged. It happens due to the loose or stretched timing chain that shakes and rattles while rotating when the engine motor is running.
MISFIRING ENGINE
Since the timing chain times the opening and closing of engine valves, any damage can unbalance the air-fuel ratio and result in a lack of power. It appears as a jerking motion and loss of acceleration.
CONTAMINATED ENGINE OIL
Another warning sign is finding metal bits in the engine oil. Metal parts from a damaged timing chain may break off and land in the oil. This finding must prompt the owner or mechanic to inspect the timing chain.
CHECK ENGINE LIGHT
Just like any other misfunctioning component of the engine, a faulty timing chain will illuminate the check engine light. It is a warning to get your vehicle assessed for underlying engine problems, which might include a bad timing chain.
INABILITY TO START THE ENGINE
This is a sign of the ultimate breakage of the timing chain. The vehicle won’t start and can result in damaging other engine components as well.
If these signs are recognized timely, the impending failure of the timing chain can be prevented with proper repair services. If you suspect that the timing chain in your vehicle needs repair, give our auto repair shop a call today!
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