When the weather changes — regardless of the season — it’s time to check the timing belts under your hood, says ContiTech’s Power Transmission Group. With that in mind, ContiTech suggests routinely checking timing belts will minimize breakdowns and save money.
“Timing belts control the precise combustion process in an engine,” said Roger Homer, director of business development for ContiTech’s Power Transmission Group. “It also carries out other functions such as driving the injection pump, water pump or differential, where it is subjected to extreme temperature fluctuations.
If a timing breaks under those conditions, it can result in a driver’s nightmare — engine damage.”
With motorists and mechanics in mind, ContiTech has a few recommendations to help the preventive maintenance program:
- Check your timing belts as often as you check your oil. The change intervals vary depending on the vehicle manufacturer, but range from 25,000 to 75,000 miles. In that case, refer to guidelines in the owner’s manual or consult a certified mechanic.
- Check for unusual wear such as edge wear, fabric wear, base separation and tooth shear or cracks.
- Also check the timing belt’s system components — idlers and guide pulleys.
A four-page pamphlet on timing belt maintenance is available by contacting ContiTech’s Power Transmission Group.
For additional information, visit the ContiTech website at www.contitech-usa.com.