Top Signs Its Time to Replace Your Timing Belt
Have you checked your timing belt lately? Do you know its probably time to get it replaced, but you dont really want to? No one wants to replace his or her timing belt, because its an expensive service. But its also a very important service. In fact, if your timing belt quits working properly it can affect other parts of your vehicle. And if it snaps while your driving, it can actually ruin your engine. So putting off this important service can really cost you.
What to Watch for
First of all, if you follow the manufacturers guidelines in your owners manual then you shouldnt have to worry about your timing belt breaking. But if youre not sure when your timing belt should be changed, there are some signs to look for that indicate your belt needs to be replaced. Heres what you need to know.
Loss of Material Your timing belt wears down much like your tires wear down. As your belt wears down, you begin to lose traction. That makes the timing belt slip. If you carry heavy loads in or with your vehicle this is even more likely to occur.
Pilling Another problem that can occur from material loss is piling. As the material breaks loose it can build up in the rib cross-sections. This loose material often causes excess vibration and belt noise. This material can also build up on the accessory brake pulleys, which means they might need to be replaced, as well.
Cracks This is an obvious sign that your timing belt is bad. You can probably spot this yourself depending on your vehicle. But if youre not sure, you can bring your vehicle into Hoesly Eco Automotive and well inspect it for you. If there are several cracks its a sign your belt is worn out and needs to be replaced. And you dont want to put this repair off.
Abrasion If you have a misalignment with a tensioner or pulley, its probably a sign of abrasion. This often happens from excessive heat or bearing failure. Bring it in to us and our mechanics will look at the belts edges to see if theyre worn down to the filaments inside. If so, then its time for a replacement.
Glazing If your timing belt has a glossy or shiny look its called glazing. That means the belt has gone stiff and it no longer has enough flexibility. We check this by trying to indent the belt surface. If it doesnt leave a mark your belt is bad and needs to be replaced.
Hydroplaning This is not the same as driving over a huge puddle of water. This kind of hydroplaning happens when water cant be moved away from the warn belt and pulleys. That causes the belt to hydroplane on water between the belt and pulleys. And that prevents power from reaching engine accessories.
Misalignment Sometimes your belt can be misaligned. If it is then the tensioners internal components may have failed. If the tensioner fails you will hear a lot of vibration and noise, and it will also produce excessive heat.
Elongation The belt length can also be altered with increased material loss. That can cause the tensioner to move beyond its take-up limit. This will reduce the tension and overall performance.
Get Your Timing Right on Your Timing Belt
Do you think it might be time to get your timing belt replaced? If youre not sure your vehicle needs this important service, then now is a good time to bring it into Hoesly Eco Automotive. A bad timing belt can cause major problems if it snaps while youre driving. So please contact Hoesly Eco Automotive today. Well check your timing belt to see if its still in good condition. Our ASE certified mechanics will get you back on the road as safely and quickly as possible. You can trust Hoesly Eco Automotive with every one of your auto repair needs in Vancouver WA. Come see us today. Just call us at 360-695-5871 or click here to set up an appointment online.
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