Timing belt failure symptoms, causes and corrective actions

The main job of the timing belt is to connect the crankshaft to the camshaft. The crankshaft controls the engine's pistons while the camshaft opens and closes the valves. The timing belt helps to control the timing of these components ensuring optimal engine performance.

A broken timing belt can cause catastrophic engine damage, therefore it is vital to keep the timing belt in good operating condition. Check the belt during routine maintenance and always ensure that the belt is changed at the manufacturer's recommended change intervals.

Also, proper tools need to be used to remove and install these pulleys. - See more at: http://staging.gatesi.prd.reference.be/en/problem-diagnosis/accessory-drive-system/oap-function-tests#sthash.bxyPeK6z.dpuf

Also, proper tools need to be used to remove and install timing belts.

If a belt does fail prematurely, it is important to determine why it failed so that corrective action can be taken. In most cases, the cause of the failure is to be found in a problem with one of the drive components.

HOW TO SPOT AND CORRECT TIMING BELT PROBLEMS?

When diagnosing serpentine belt problems, use the following troubleshooting methods to resolve the problem: - See more at: http://staging.gatesi.prd.reference.be/en/problem-diagnosis/accessory-drive-system/micro-v-belt-wear-symptoms#sthash.WF3iA4GB.dpuf

When diagnosing timing belt problems, use the following troubleshooting methods to resolve the problem:

Timing belt straight/raffled cord line rupture

1. Broken timing belt

Probable causes: 1) Straight cord line rupture: belt was crimped before fitment; 2) Raffled cord line rupture: foreign object between the belt and pulley will break the tensile cords; or belt was twisted over 90° or turned inside out before fitment, or forced on a pulley e.g. using a sharp object such as a screwdriver.

Corrective actions: Make sure to observe proper belt handling instructions and never coil, crimp or twist timing belts as this damages its tensile cords; Install at correct tension.