Question 1

Timing Chain

Accepted Answer

A chain driven engine has a metal timing chain run inside the engine, lubricated by engine oil. Its job is to synchronize the rotation of the crankshaft and camshaft(s), ensuring that your engine’s valves open and close at exactly the right time during each cylinder’s intake and exhaust strokes.
Timing chains are built to last the lifetime of the engine and do not have service replacement like belts. However, like any moving part, they can stretch, wear, or develop faults over time. If you do have an issue with your engine, the team at Barr Auto can identify if the timing chain  is the cause of the issue and  we can replace the timing components.

Question 2

Timing Belt

Accepted Answer

The timing belt synchronises the crankshaft and camshaft, ensuring the timing of valves opening and closing exactly at the right moment. Timing belts are made from reinforced rubber and do wear out over time, which is why manufacturers specify strict replacement intervals. In many cases, the water pump is driven by the timing belt, which is why it is often recommended to replace both at the same time. At Barr Auto, we recommend timing belt servicing according to the manufacturer’s specified intervals, using quality parts and high standard of workmanship. Skipping your timing belt replacement could end up in belt failure which most often leads to major engine failure without warning.

Question 3

Wet Belt

Accepted Answer

Some modern engines, like the 2.0L Ford Ranger, use an “in-oil” timing belt, also known as a wet belt. Instead of running dry outside the engine, this belt sits inside the engine and runs in engine oil. While designed for quiet operation and efficiency, wet belts are notorious for breaking down earlier than expected. Contaminated or poor-quality oil and delayed service intervals, accelerates wet belt deterioration. Pieces of rubber can circulate through the oil system blocking filters, vacuum pump and oil pick up strainers, and in some cases, causing catastrophic engine failure. The team at Barr Auto can service your wet belt engine, inspect it regularly, and replace the belt before it causes engine damage.

TIMING

TIMING BELT

TIMING CHAIN

WET BELT

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