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Timing belts resemble an engine accessory serpentine belt in appearance, only they typically have square teeth on the inside surface. They usually are constructed of rubber reinforced with nylon. The timing belt transfers the rotation of the crankshaft to the camshaft. The rotating camshaft activates the valves, which provide air and fuel to the cylinders and expel combustion gases to the exhaust system.

The valves and pistons are constantly moving up and down at very high speeds. When the pistons are down, the valves are open; when the piston is at the top of its travel, the valves are closed. Some engines don't allow clearance between a valve at its lowest point and a piston at its highest. The timing belt, therefore, is the critical link to ensure that these components don't collide. If collision occurs, damage to the valves, pistons, cylinder head and cylinder walls can result. This can be an expensive repair.

Many domestic vehicles built within the last several years and the majority of imports are equipped with a timing belt. Other engines rely on a timing chain rather than a belt. Your owner's manual maintenance schedule is a source of timing belt replacement intervals, typically every 60,000 to 90,000 miles.

If you are in need of a new timing belt, we have them available from top manufacturers like ACDelco, Beck/Arnley, Gates and Sealed Power.

Article content provided by carcare.org

This is the resto-mod Mustang that my son and I built using parts from RockAuto. The Mustang now has a DOHC 4.6 engine and T-45 transmission. Many of the driveline and engine compartment parts along with a Lincoln Mark VIII radiator are also from RockAuto.

Bruce in Baltimore

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