If the engine cooling system thermostat is only accessible with water pump replacement, the thermostat should be replaced as well. If replacing the water pump, do so at this time, and of course drain the cooling system first.Remove timing belt tensioner and idler pulleys. Lock camshafts, as required, and note position of camshaft timing marks. Remove all accessories interfering with the removal of the timing belt covers.Once the engine is cold, set the crankshaft to top dead center with the number one piston on the compression stroke. How do mechanics replace the timing belt?Įngine designs vary, and thus the replacement procedure will vary, but broadly, the procedure is as follows: If your car has an interference engine, replacing the timing belt according to the maintenance schedule will minimize the chance that a belt failure will cause engine damage. These engine designs are referred to as interference engines. On some engines, if the timing belt has jumped, the pistons and valves can collide and there will be noise and damage. Should the belt jump, the engine will run poorly and perhaps not at all. After many tens of thousands of miles, the teeth can wear or break, or the belt can stretch, thus causing the belt to jump position on the crankshaft or camshaft gears. The molded, reinforced teeth on the timing belt engage gears on the crankshaft and camshafts. Occasionally, timing belts can break, or skip, while the engine is running. Engine stops abruptly or will not start.Your vehicle owner’s manual should state the specific service interval. If an engine is equipped with a timing belt, the timing belt must be replaced at the service interval specified by the vehicle manufacturer regardless of whether or not any problem is visible, typically in the range of 60,000 to 90,000 miles. If that happens, the check engine light will become illuminated. Your car’s computer will likely notice if the timing belt or timing chain isn’t doing it’s job, because the engine won’t be functioning properly. If your car won’t run, then the timing belt could likely be a cause. That means you’ll have less power, and also worse fuel mileage.Įxtensive damage can be done to the engine when the timing belt or chain breaks. If the timing belt isn’t working right, then the crankshaft and camshafts won’t be synced properly, and the engine will not perform effectively. If you notice a sound coming from under the hood, specifically a whirring or rapping noise, then it might be the timing belt or chain. A sound warranty provides peace of mind that you’re getting an OEM-grade timing belt and expert repair. Ask about warranty coverage when you schedule your appointment. You don’t want to experience engine damage due to a low-quality timing belt or poor workmanship. They will also be honest about pricing (including giving you an estimate for parts and labor) and won’t try to add on any unnecessary repairs. Online recommendations or word-of-mouth suggestions will help you find a mechanic with an outstanding reputation.Ī good shop will take the time to explain the timing belt replacement process in detail. The best shops have a loyal clientele – and a packed schedule to prove it. And if the shop doesn’t have the right credentials, move on. In particular, you’ll want to ask whether the mechanic assigned to your car has A1 Engine Repair certification. How to find a local repair shop for a Timing Belt replacement?Ĭheck to make sure the shop is working with only the best, aka ASE certified professionals. Warranties offer quality assurance and protect you in the rare case that something goes wrong with your repair. Always ask about warranties when you schedule an appointment. Timing belt quality varies, as does the caliber of the work being performed. You’ll know you’re in good hands when a mechanic, in a clean uniform, arrives in a company vehicle equipped with tools and car parts to complete the job. Repair in your driveway should be a professional experience. If a repair business has been around for a long time and has a devoted following, you can bet they operate with intelligence and integrity. Recommendations, either via word-of-mouth or internet reviews, are a great way to find a stellar mechanic. You’ll want to choose someone who has A1 Engine Repair certification. Look for a certified mechanic who has experience working with your car’s make and model.Īlso, keep in mind, there are many different areas a technician can specialize in. You don’t want just anyone popping the hood and poking around. The new car smell may be long gone, but that doesn’t mean your car doesn’t deserve the best – even if it’s seen better days. How to find a mobile mechanic for a Timing Belt replacement?
0 Comments
Leave a Reply. |
AuthorWrite something about yourself. No need to be fancy, just an overview. ArchivesCategories |