Note that a timing chain is just that – a physical linked chain, very much like a bicycle chain – as opposed to the loop of rubberised material typically found in a standard cambelt setup. There are upsides and downsides to each configuration.

The main benefit of a timing chain is of course that the metal construction makes it much more hardwearing, and far less prone to needing periodic replacement than a material belt. The drawbacks of timing chains are that they need constant lubrication to function properly, they’re a lot louder in operation than rubber or fabric-type belts, and that they can cause far more severe and widespread damage on the rare occasions that they fail catastrophically.

Moreover, the tensioners on a timing chain are controlled by the engine’s oil pressure, meaning it becomes even more critical to maintain this at the correct bar level at all times. By contrast, water pump pressure is usually what dictates the proper functioning of cambelt tensioners, which is why you’ll often get a recommendation to replace your water pump at the same time as having a new timing belt fitted.

Cambelts and timing belts provide a range of related functions in various other sorts of power transmission systems besides internal combustion engines. Common examples seen in everyday manufacturing and industrial processes include conveying belts and linear positioning belts.

Various configurations of timing belts are used in a wide range of products and processes. These might include, to name just a few:

• Office machinery
• Electronic data processing equipment (EDP)
• Textile machinery
• Wood processing machinery
• Machine tools
• Compressors
• Printing machinery
• Hydraulic gear pumps
• Building machinery

This article comes from rs-online edit released