Engine Belt Sizes

 

Engine belt sizes differ because there are various kinds available. For example, some have a pitch of 45 inches, but others will be different. The engine belt is also called the cam belt or the timing belt. While there are different designs, it is always a component of the internal combustion engine. Specifically it is part of the engine that manages engine valve timing. 

Overview 

The timing belts have taken the place of the timing chains that were used in the 1980s. Other car engines use timing gears instead however. Sometimes the words timing belt are applied for every flat belt equipped with an integral teeth. However that is incorrect because there is no timing component involved.

How the Timing Belt Works 

While the engine belt sizes vary, its function is still the same. The timing belt is responsible for hooking up the crankshaft onto the camshaft. This in turn manages the closing and opening of the engine valves. 

For instance, a 4-stroke engine demands that the valves are closed and opened every other crankshaft revolution. This is the job of the timing belt. The timing belt has teeth to move the camshaft synchronized with the crankshaft. 

It is important that the belt used is for that engine. In some engines, the engine belt may also be employed to drive other parts. The components it may work with are oil and water pumps. 

Depending on the engine belt size, the gear system can be used to hook up the crankshaft to the camshaft. But some shafts and gears can restrict the location of the camshaft. 

Even if the camshaft and crankshaft are close to each other, majority of engine designers utilize the short chain drive. Fiber gears are often preferred to the metal gears for the direct drive. 

Rubber Belts 

The composite belts are not as durable as the chains, but they are less noisy. They are also less expensive. Because they are not as heavy, the rubber composite belts are regarded as more efficient. 

Compared with the timing gear or chain, the timing belts do not require any kind of lubrication. Usually, the timing belt is shielded by polymer or metal. These have to be replaced, but the intervals vary per manufacturer. 

The engine belt size and features vary, so you must check out the specs carefully. If you are unsure of what to get, refer to the car manual or go to an automotive accessories store.