Timing chain replacement period. When and how to change the timing chain. Chain: some features and timing of replacement

During a cold start, the engine emits a suspicious metallic "growl" for several seconds? In 90% of cases, this is caused by a problem with the timing chain. It is necessary to check its condition and, if something is wrong, replace the component. If you do not carry out the replacement in time, you will have to spend a lot of money on repairs in the future.

What is a timing chain and is it subject to wear

One of the main elements of the engine gas distribution mechanism is a special belt, which ensures the well-coordinated operation of each component of this part of the car. Many machines use a chain instead of a belt. Thanks to it, the engine mechanisms rotate synchronously and function normally for a long time.

The chain runs whenever the engine is running. The load is high enough that the part gradually wears out and fails over time. Sometimes the chain just stretches. Sometimes a tooth flies off from it, which leads to slippage. Even the smallest damage will result in out-of-sync components and increase the risk of damage to engine valves. If the problem is not corrected in time, the camshaft may also break. It will be necessary to change both it and the cylinder block gasket, which is expensive.

How to understand what needs to be changed: the frequency according to the regulations

Many auto manufacturers say the chain is designed to last the entire life of the vehicle. Alas, this is only true when using the machine in ideal conditions. Longitudinal vibrations at high speeds cause excessive tension on the component and subsequent fracture.

Typically, this part needs to be replaced every 100,000 km. If there is a knock and a metallic rumble while driving, it means that the chain is stretched and slips. If such signs appear, replacement is required immediately! A decrease in engine power, a thick gray exhaust, loud noises in the muffler, a sudden increase in engine temperature for no apparent reason are also possible - it is by these signs, which most often appear not alone, but together, that one can easily determine the wear of an element.

Have you bought any used car? Be sure to inspect the chain, even if the owner says he recently changed it.

In some cars, in case of problems with the gas distribution mechanism, dashboard a special indicator lights up. If the chain is not replaced in a timely manner, it will jump and damage the block head. Further events depend on many factors. In the most favorable case, the valves are simply bent. In the worst case, their constituent elements are torn and the cylinder block becomes unusable.

How to choose the right spare part

Timing chains are single-row and double-row. Each option has its own advantages and disadvantages.

When installing a single-row version, the engine power increases slightly, the noise level decreases. The fact is that it is easier for the power unit to scroll one row of the chain than two.
The double-row chain leads to an increase in the noise level while driving, but it is much more reliable. Such a product is designed for a long service life.

Chains are subdivided into several types according to the number of links. The choice depends on the make of the car and the characteristics of the engine used in it. So, in VAZ 2101 and 2102 cars and other cars with an engine displacement of 1.2 and 1.3 liters, models with 114 links are used. A 116-link chain will come in handy for the owner of a car with an engine capacity of 1.5, 1.6 and 1.7 liters (these are VAZ 2103, 2107 and Niva). It is better to check the exact information on the suitable kit in the documentation for the vehicle.

DIY component replacement

Want to save money? The chain can be easily replaced with your own hands. However, this task is not an easy one, so it is better for a beginner not to take on it. Prepare to spend at least 3-4 hours. You also need to prepare a place and a set of tools in advance.

Consider the process of replacing a chain using an example Nissan almera N16 Classic.

Platform and tools

It is advisable to carry out the work where there is a lift, overpass or pit. Prepare the following tools:

hex key 6;
socket heads in sizes 12, 13 and 14;
chisel and hammer;
a clean cloth to wipe off;
containers into which technical fluids will need to be drained;
adjustable and torque wrenches;
block of wood;
sealant and "anti-silicone" (degreaser);
and, of course, a new chain.

All modern cars are polysyllabic constructive installations, clearly calibrated for functioning in difficult, not single-line conditions. This topic is especially relevant to the power plant of the machine, in which there are a lot of components. Each of them has a specific function, role. And the timing belt is one such element, damage to which can easily lead to serious damage and expensive repairs. Therefore, it is extremely important to know when to replace a failed element.

The most important detail of the internal combustion engine

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The timing belt is the very part responsible for transferring the rotational motion from the crankshaft to the camshafts. The latter, in turn, control the distribution of the fuel-air mixture in the engine cylinders.

When the belt slips and is loosely tensioned, this leads to malfunctioning of the entire GRS mechanism. Correct camshaft rotation is not ensured, which results in poor timing control. As a result, the engine may malfunction, a drop in its power, increased consumption fuel or other problems.

Strong tension and breakage of the belt lead to large changes in the functioning of the GRS mechanism. For example, this can threaten a complex ICE repair, in which the cylinder valves open towards the piston, which accordingly leads to serious deformations of the engine internals. Major repairs or replacement of the motor are the only setup options in this case.

Preventing depressing consequences is the task of the car owner, who is responsible for the condition of his car. Nobody will do it for you. For this reason, it is extremely important to timely monitor the condition of the belt, because it can break for another reason. For example, it can be at the end of the service life. A belt is a rubber product that has its own resource. When the time comes, it wears out for natural reasons, you just need to replace it on time, and that's it.

Components that function in tandem with the belt should also be diagnosed. For example, this applies to checking the rollers or the pump. If you ignore these parts, which ensure the correct tension and function of the belt in general, problems will not take long to appear.

In order to reduce the risk of damage to the internal combustion engine, it is recommended to check with the car dealer or dealer the timing belt resource periods. It is especially important to do this when buying a car from the "secondary". If on new car there is a service book, and you can trust it, then in the case of a used car, everything is much more complicated. For the ignorant person, there is practically no way whatsoever to determine exactly when a part was replaced. You have to take your word for it, or take the car to a car service.

Belt: determination of replacement period

To understand when it's time to change a belt, you need to be able to take into account not one, but several factors. First of all, it is recommended to pay attention to the quality of the product. In other words, to determine - what kind of production it is. Today, in the conditions of availability of products, a varied number of products are supplied to the markets, including those from "left-wing" manufacturers. Even in stores, sellers often impose the purchase of not original, but universal products, supposedly no different from their relatives.

Of course, this is not the case, and you should not follow the lead of a dealer who is interested in selling his own product. It should be understood that spare parts of non-original quality are rarely of good quality and reliability. When operating a car with a non-original belt, the life span is almost halved. It is worth changing only for a good product.

60-70 thousand km of vehicle mileage is the average belt indicator, its resource. If the car is used, then you should not blindly trust its former owner, waiting for the date to be replaced according to the passport.

Note. It is important to understand that on old cars, the resource of a part is reduced much faster, as this is due to the wear and tear of the entire system, including machine units and mechanisms that are subject to natural aging.

Chain: some features and timing of replacement

If the timing belt is a rubber band closed on both sides with notches (teeth), then the chain is already a metal part. Both elements perform the same function, ensuring the synchronous operation of both shafts. The difference between a chain and a belt is that the metal product has a longer service life.

The chain drive, in comparison with the rubber drive, has both its advantages and disadvantages. With a longer history, the chain symbolizes the classic drive type. The use of a chain drive began in the automotive industry since the 50s of the last century, which coincides with the time of the transition to the design of an internal combustion engine with an overhead camshaft.

If the chain was better belt, it would be used everywhere today. But as reality shows, on the contrary, most car manufacturers equip their cars with a rubber belt drive. The mere fact that the chain is noisy frightens off many.

The chain, unlike the belt, is made in the form of roller connectors, and not teeth. Rollers are known to have less flexibility and make more noise when rotating.

A priori in tandem with chain drive more durable additional components function. For example, the tensioners of such a transmission must be inherently powerful in order to maintain constant tension on the metal chain. Compared to belt tensioners, the difference is huge. There is a large and heavy hydraulic tensioner, here is a light and miniature oil shock absorber. There may be several tensioners themselves, so you draw the appropriate conclusion not in favor of the chain.

We will not go into the topic of differences between a chain and a belt drive. The above was presented only descriptive, Comparative characteristics... We are more interested in the timing of the replacement.

The classic answer of the seller of a car with a timing chain drive: I have a chain in my car, which, compared to the belt, is indestructible. Is it so? Of course, this is a misconception, but most consumers fall for the bait. The metal product, like the belt, breaks as a result, and this threatens the internal combustion engine with even greater problems.

Note. At one time, Mercedes were produced with a chain that could last a very long time. But the era of such cars is long over. Modern machines chain-driven timing gears are almost as vulnerable as belt-driven vehicles.

If the belt breaks, the internal combustion engine can be easily saved from overhaul by replacing the part with a new one in time. If the chain breaks, it threatens to be a complete failure. This is explained by the material of the product, which is much more massive than the belt. The metal chain severely damages the insides of the motor after a break, and only a few succeed in reanimating the internal combustion engine after such cases.

So, the approximate resource of the chain is 200 or 250 thousand kilometers. Of course, compared to a belt, this is 4 times more, but do not forget that the passport data are given, which are valid only under ideal operating conditions. In most cases, the chain under Russian operating conditions does not withstand even half of the given period.

Another feature of the chain drive is also interesting. So, it functions well on some cars, the product's resource can withstand almost the entire passport period, on other cars it does not last even 60 thousand km, like the belt. What does this mean? According to experts, about a birth defect. It is worth writing about this in more detail.

It is not always the manufacturer of the metal chain or tensioner that is the problem. Most of the chains break due to lack of lubrication. For example, this was observed on gasoline 1.6-liter Peugeot-Citroen internal combustion engines with Euro-4 standards or on 2-liter diesel units of Bavarian BMW car models.

Violation of the manufacturer's standards for lubricant quality, its abundance and replacement intervals greatly accelerates the chance of problems. Almost any chain is secured with a roller tensioner. It is the latter that ensures the correct tension. In turn, the effectiveness of the tensioner depends directly on the pressure of the lubricant. Again, here's an example: the Opel CDTI is powered by a 1.3-liter Fiat Multijet engine. With active driving in city conditions, in such an engine, a drop in the oil level is observed. If the driver does not notice this in time, the pressure in the lubrication system will also decrease, and this will lead to a weakening of the tension.

Of course, it does not do without errors in the process of engineering elements. For example chains and tensioners power plants concern Volkswagen TSI for 1.2 and 1.4 liters, a vivid example.

No developer indicates the ideal exact time for replacing the chain. It is easier to determine the triggering of a chain by various signs. For example, it can be a strong noise and phase shift of the HRM, which are determined using computer diagnostics. Experienced motorists will quickly identify the problem.

Note. On some motors, it is easy to analyze the consistency of the chain by a malfunction of the roller tensioner rod.

When purchasing a car with a timing chain drive, we recommend paying attention to the following points:

As with the belt, it is not appropriate to replace the product "just in case" here. If there is evidence of chain wear, in the car trade it will be possible to reduce the price of the car by several hundred or even thousands of dollars.
We must be very careful about the issue of motor lubrication. It is imperative to check the quality of the oil used on the car. If it is of poor quality, then this is already a reason to think about whether the chain is in order.
In addition, it is necessary to pay a separate question regarding the regular oil change. Lubrication should be carried out at least once every 15 thousand kilometers.
Be extremely attentive to all kinds of noises, knocks. It is especially important to pay attention to the noises that arise immediately after starting the internal combustion engine or during prolonged operation of the engine at idle. It is possible that these are the initial signs of a timing malfunction.

As a rule, the timing drive is located in the engine building in different ways. It is conventionally accepted to distinguish between front-wheel drive and rear-wheel drive arrangement. The first type implies such an arrangement of the drive when it is installed in the same plane as the belts of the attachment. The second type is when the drive is located in the same plane as the flywheel and gearbox.

The first-type exposure of the drive is more common, since it is easier to carry out according to the scheme. On the other hand, for several years in a row, automotive giants such as Audi and BMW have been using rear-wheel drive systems. Of course, such a solution significantly complicates the maintenance of the timing. It is good that the rear drive arrangement is used only on some models of these German cars, and even then, endowed with a chain, but not a belt.

At the end of the article, we give useful tips that can help determine the wear of the timing belt and chain.

Rough idling.
Unusual noise of the unit during operation.
Optimal permissible position of the tensioner, visible after removing the cover-protection.

About the belt:

Adverse appearance products.
Deviation from the set position of the roller tensioner and the sprocket of the shaft.
Excessive temperature or defective roller bearing.
Belt lengthening.

The timing chain (timing) in the car is responsible for the normal operation of the engine. For novice drivers, this part is not the most popular, and few of them know exactly where it is located. Actually, they learn about it only after it breaks down. You can change the chain yourself, the main thing is to know exactly how the replacement is done.

Why change the timing chain

The timing chain functions when the vehicle engine is running. Over time, it undergoes wear and tear and breaks down. As an option, one of the chain teeth flies off, because of which it will begin to slip. Since the mechanism is located in such a way that it unites other moving parts in a rigid hitch, one slip will be enough to break the entire system. A break in the timing chain in many cars causes engine valve defects that will have to be replaced. On the diesel engines the camshaft may break, and as a result, it is necessary to replace not only the timing chain itself, but also the camshaft, valve and cylinder block gasket.

The process of changing the timing chain on some machine models takes up to 5 hours. Usually, not only the chain itself is changed, but also the tensioning mechanisms. It is not worth saving on details: a low-quality chain can break very quickly. Without fail, the timing chain on a car bought from the hands is changed, even if the previous owner assures that it is new.

How to determine system wear and when replacement is needed

During operation, the timing chain is in a bent position and constantly heats up. Operating under these conditions will cause stretching and sagging. This also affects the strength. Gradually, the chain begins to sag due to wear of the link joints, as a result, it begins to jump one or two teeth. The cause of faults and breakage is depreciation wear.

It is virtually impossible to visually identify the wear of the chain or by the sound it makes. In addition, it is also impossible to carry out such an examination with the naked eye. Therefore, when replacing a part, only its resource is taken into account. The operational period depends on power unit vehicle, operating conditions and mileage.

The manufacturer gives recommendations for changing the timing for each power unit. However, in practice, the actual life of the chain can vary significantly and vary depending on the conditions of use of the car. The manufacturer makes its recommendations based on tests carried out at the test site, and everyday driving in city mode destroys the part much faster. In addition, the replacement terms may change depending on climatic conditions, which is typical for Russia.

The consequences of a breakdown of the timing mechanism for the engine

An open circuit or defects in the rollers lead to a loss of communication between the crankshaft and camshafts. The valves located in the cylinder head stop and freeze in the position in which they were at the time of the circuit break. In this case, the pistons function without interruption. Since the pistons and valves work in sync, the pistons will collide with the valves as a result of stopping. As a result, both parts are completely destroyed. Depending on the design of the engine, this problem is solved either by replacing the valve system and other parts with a piston group, or by installing a new motor.

Schedule and frequency of work

The timing chain, like any other part of the car, has its own working resource. Its duration is influenced by the operating conditions, the model and make of the car and the type of motor. On average, the life of the chain is 60 thousand kilometers or two years, but you should not delay too much with changing the part. There is no need to wait until it is worn out to such an extent that it starts to fall apart. Many modern vehicle models have integrated sensors that notify the driver when a given part is replaced.

The timing chain also has its own operating resource. After 100 thousand kilometers, it stretches and sags. The reason for this is the wear of the hinge joints and the increase in the distance between them. As a result, despite normal compression, tuned valves and serviceable ignition and power systems, the power unit intermittently operates on Idling... The chain jumps one or two teeth. This can provoke either simply stopping the power unit, or jamming the valves and overhauling the motor.

How to understand if a part is stretched and is not working correctly

First, the correctness of the ignition is checked. If it is set incorrectly and each time after its readjustment it gets lost again, then this is the main symptom of an extended chain.

Choosing a chain mechanism: what kits are there

There are two main types of timing chains. Usually, when purchasing a new chain in car dealerships, they are interested in how many links it needs.

The first type is a chain with 114 links, installed on motors with a working volume of 1.2 or 1.3 liters. Domestic cars are equipped with similar chains.

The second type is a chain with 116 links. Install it on motors with a volume of 1.5, 1.6 and 1.7 liters. Such parts are used on domestic and foreign car brands.

How to replace a part

To change a damaged timing chain, you need to stock up on the following tools (for example, Toyota Avensis):

tension adjustment key;
key 15;
tension wrench;
large screwdriver or crowbar;
Retaining ring extraction tool.

How to remove

The timing case, which is attached with two bolts, is removed first. After that, the bolts securing the crankcase protection are unscrewed. They are unscrewed with keys No. 13 and 17. To gain full access to the timing drive, the engine protection is removed - this makes it easier to inspect.
After that, the mounting bolts of the compressor are unscrewed and the belt is removed from it.
The contacts are de-energized by removing the terminals located on the battery. It is advisable to put them in a rubber cover in order to guarantee safety during the repair. After that, the power steering fluid tank and the cooling system pipes are removed.
The compressor is locked in its original position. To correctly install a new timing chain, you need to pay attention to the special marks.
The bolts securing the generator are unscrewed and the terminal is removed. Simultaneously with it, the chip located on the right is removed. It is advisable to remove the generator itself - this is done only by unscrewing the lower bolt. This will allow easy access to the timing chain.
Wrench # 10 unscrew the bolts, remove the pump pulley.
Removing the timing chain protection is one of the most important steps. The bolts located at the top, bottom and center are removed in the order of their location.

How to put it on without problems

After removing the old timing chain, you must install a new one. They may differ externally - it all depends on the manufacturer.

Before changing the chain, it is advisable to fix the flywheel - this way it will not move during installation new part... For this, the starter is removed, and instead of it a special device is attached that fixes the flywheel in one position. Professionals do not resort to such a procedure - they simply unscrew the bolts at the bottom of the starter.

When adjusting the clutch, the transmission is locked at neutral speed. The clutch itself is turned 11 turns clockwise. Then, in place of the plug, a bolt is inserted that secures the crankshaft. In this case, the position of the flywheel is marked - the chain will be adjusted according to the mark.

The crankshaft itself is attached with two bolts, the pulley is held in one position with a special key.
The engine support is removed after the vehicle is jacked up and the 4 bolts have been removed, after which the support holder is removed.
If necessary, the crankshaft bolt is replaced with a new one.
New timing chain and rollers are installed only after removing the toothed pulley cover. Then a pin is installed, which will allow you to quickly and easily pull out the chain along with the rollers.
The tensioner is used only after a new timing chain has been installed. Worn out rollers are replaced with new ones.

After the crankshaft bolts are tightened, the location of the mark on the flywheel is checked. All removed parts are returned to their place in the order they were removed. At the end of the chain replacement, the operation of the vehicle is checked.

How to change the timing chain tensioner

The chain tensioner is used to tension the chain during operation. The design of this part is such that the tension is carried out in automatic mode... Inside the tensioner there is a hydraulic pusher and a spring. Outdated models of such a part practically did not work, but recently they have been improved, becoming more reliable.

In order to change the chain tensioner, the following tools are required (for example, the replacement on the EP6 engine is taken):

Slotted screwdriver;
Key for 10;
Torx key for 30;
Key for eight, seven or a small ratchet;
Large ratchet and head for 27.

To access the chain tensioner from the engine, first remove the air filter and throttle assembly.

New tensioner installation process:

Frame air filter unscrews from the valve cover using a key # 10;
The air filter housing and guides are removable;
The ventilation branch pipe is disconnected from the valve cover;
Using the key # 8, the clamp of the inlet pipe is removed to the throttle assembly;
The throttle assembly is removed. Before that, it is advisable to remember its location;
The timing chain tensioner is unscrewed;
After removing the tensioner, you can measure the degree of chain elongation;
All removed parts are returned to their places in reverse order.

After changing and installing the chain, it is extremely rarely smeared. engine oil because it is lubricated during its operation inside the motor.

Installing a new part and the process of marking the chain of the mechanism on the video

Timely change of the timing chain is very important, since ignoring the recommendations of the manufacturer can cause damage to the power unit. Repair work on the motor will cost significantly more than repairing a single part. It is advisable to constantly monitor the condition of the timing chain, since its premature failure can be a consequence of the effects of climatic, road conditions and driving style.

From time to time, any mechanism of the car fails, as a result of which an urgent replacement is required. In the case of a chain (belt) of the gas distribution mechanism, it is very undesirable to take it to extremes, since in many cases the rupture of this element can easily lead to the need for overhaul of the power unit of the vehicle. The fact is that the timing chain keeps the pistons and engine valves from meeting, and if this barrier disappears, then the impact will lead to deformation of the parts, which, of course, will disrupt the operation of the entire system. After a circuit break, it is very difficult to restore a car engine, and in some cases it is simply impossible. Therefore, you should be aware of the signs of the approach of this moment and about the features of the replacement of the part.

1. When you need to replace the timing chain

The chain (or belt) of the gas distribution mechanism of any car is a kind of connection between and, which are responsible for the operation of the valves. Once popular and forgotten for a while, today it is in the lead over the belt option, since it combines all the best qualities of a gear and belt drive:

- reliability and relatively high wear resistance;

Working noiselessness;

Resistant to sudden changes in temperature.

True, there are also disadvantages, which are expressed in strong stretching. So, after some time, the chain itself, and the gears on which it is pulled, can wear out, which will significantly affect the operation of the power unit (and its repair is a very expensive service). At some point, you will need to replace the chain, with which, if available necessary tools, car manuals and a stock of patience, you can handle it yourself.

Most manufacturers do not indicate the exact timing of the replacement of the chain (which cannot be said about timing belts), and its condition has to be recognized by its characteristic symptoms. Often, severe wear is manifested in increased noise and valve timing.(determined using a special diagnostic computer). However, experienced mechanics can easily recognize a malfunction by other manifestations. For example, individual power units make it possible to assess the condition of the timing chain by the output of the tensioner rod.

It is also possible (and necessary) to carry out a preventive inspection after 100,000 kilometers, and the need for replacement is determined by the chain tension. More details can be seen in phases. If the bearing housing mark does not match the sprocket mark, or if the bushings are chipped, immediate replacement is required.

2. The process of replacing the timing chain

At first glance, in carrying out self replacement timing chain is no big deal: you just need to remove the old part and install a new one. But in practice, everything is far from so simple. The main point to which you should pay attention is the exact coincidence of the marks, otherwise the slightest displacement of them can easily cause a breakdown of the car engine. Therefore, when performing the replacement yourself, try to strictly follow the operating instructions in order to avoid the possibility of damage to the parts of the power unit and more serious problems with the vehicle. However, a complete lack of knowledge and skills in the field of auto repair can lead to sad consequences.

Those motorists who nevertheless decided to take a risk and replace the timing chain on their own, you need to know the algorithm of actions and have an appropriate set of tools. So, as for the latter, for a high-quality replacement procedure, you will need:

- a set of wrenches and socket wrenches (heads);

Torque wrench (camshaft lock);

Crankshaft puller and gear puller;

Screwdriver Set;

A set of oil seals;

Hammer and punch;

Light strobe;

Silicone sealant;

Lubricating fluid / oil;

Timing chain cover gasket;

New timing chain and gears;

Degreasing agent for the engine;

Capacity for draining liquid;

The replacement of the chain itself consists of two interrelated parts: disassembling the engine and reassembling it, of course, already with new parts.

Dismantling the engine includes the following steps:

1. First, find the manual for the machine (you will need it to disassemble and reassemble various parts).

2. Then thoroughly clean the engine with a degreaser and determine the ignition order of your car.

3. Also make sure that the first cylinder is raised (pull out the spark plug and insert a screwdriver into the hole, the piston should be near the screwdriver head).

4. Disconnect the vehicle battery cables and remove the radiator cap (just make sure it's not hot first).

5. Drain the antifreeze into a container prepared in advance and remove the radiator hoses.

7. Remove fan and water pump;

8. Remove the timing chain cover;

9. Find the mark on the old chain and the same mark on the cog.

10. Crank the engine until the marks line up.

11. Re-mark both chains (scratch with a screwdriver).

12. Dismantle the chain after loosening the gear mechanism.

This completes the first part of the work on replacing the timing chain and you can proceed to the second - assembling the engine.

The sequence of actions in this case is as follows:

1. First, before installing a new chain, lubricate lubricating fluid(oil) gears.

2. Place the part on the gears, aligning them with the marks.

3. Install the appropriate bolts on the camshaft gears and tighten them according to the requirements described in the vehicle owner's manual.

4. Knock out the crankshaft oil seal using a punch and hammer.

5. Install a new oil seal in the timing cover.

6. Lubricate the oil seal with oil.

7. Reinstall the timing chain cover.

8. Install the water and fuel pumps, fan and fan clamps.

9. In accordance with the requirements of the technical documentation, fill the radiator with coolant.

10. Connect all hoses and chains.

11. Connect the battery.

12. Start the car engine.

13. Check for any drops or leaks.

14. Check the timing of the timing mechanism with a light stroboscope (gives light pulses per unit of time).

3. Difficulties when replacing the timing chain

When installing a new timing chain, it is important to tension it correctly, as too little tension will lead to its sagging, which means there is a possibility of skipping and damage to engine parts. An overly tensioned chain can simply not withstand the pressure and break from excessive tension. In general, if you really decide to cope with the task yourself, then do it very carefully, and if any problems arise, it is better to immediately contact an experienced mechanic, otherwise "self-medication" can lead to more complex breakdowns and large material expenditures ...

Note! Before moving on to direct action, make sure you have exactly what it takes to get the job done well. The means at hand are not suitable for this, since they do not exclude the possibility of slippage and injury from the use of unsuitable instruments. Always handle hot parts, sharp or other hazardous materials with extreme care.

Work on a level, clean surface while maintaining vehicle not only with the help of a jack, but also with additional supports. The option of working on an unreliable and non-rigid surface should be completely ruled out. Never leave radiator antifreeze in an open container and unattended, as it is poisonous and dangerous to people and animals. All such liquids should be stored only in special, tightly closed containers.

Many car enthusiasts like to arrange disputes among themselves about. To establish the truth, you need to know what advantages the chain has in the engine, the disadvantages of the chain, as well as what it is for and what design features the chain drive has.

Read in this article

Materiel

V car engine a metal chain is used in one node: c. To understand its purpose, it is worth remembering the operation of the mechanism itself.

So, while the engine is running internal combustion on many fuel-air mixture enters the cylinders through. The combustion chamber is separate from the manifold. After combustion, the exhaust gases are removed through, which also separates the cylinder from the manifold. The valves are closed by the valve springs. And they open under the influence of cams.

The cams are located on the shaft axis in such a way as to open some valves while others are closed. The position of the cams relative to the valves changes when the camshaft rotates. In turn, it rotates through. Therefore, it is necessary to somehow transfer rotation from one shaft to another.

The circuit in the engine fulfills this function. The chain has been replaced on many makes and models of machines. It is quite rare to find a hybrid drive in which a chain and a belt are installed at the same time. In addition, the drive can additionally consist of several gears.

The chain drive on the gas distribution mechanism has been used for a long time and is not at all a relic of the past, as inexperienced motorists mistakenly believe. The solution is still used today by such giants of the automotive industry as BMW, Toyota, Mitsubishi and many others. This is due to the following advantages:

Strength. The chain rarely gets mechanical damage;
Wear resistance. With proper care, the timing chain resource is from 100 to 200 thousand kilometers;
The chain life is not affected by low or high temperatures;
The chain does not stretch under load (chain stretching occurs, but only over time, as the resource is depleted);
Resistance to local sudden overloads;

Disadvantages of the timing chain drive

Increased weight. In some cases, this point will seem controversial, and sometimes weight does matter. For example, in racing cars.
The complexity of the design, more technological and costly production. That is, the higher cost of the spare part for the end user. In addition, the design of the entire timing drive itself becomes more complicated, since a damper, a chain tensioner is needed. These parts also fail and often create additional problems.

Difficulty of replacement. In order to replace or at least check the circuit in the car engine, you will have to remove a special cover on, the cover of the block itself (depending on the make and model of the car).

Some motorists cannot or do not want to perform these operations on their own, as a result they are forced to spend additional money in car services. In addition, when replacing, it will be necessary to correctly set the position of the crankshaft and camshaft, which adds to the hassle.

Noise. Even a new chain will make more noise when the engine is running than a belt.

How to understand when it is time to change the chain in the engine

The timing chain, despite its durability, also has to be changed. Most often this happens due to the fact that it is stretched.

That is, its length increases by several millimeters. As a result, the tension deteriorates, the chain often jumps by 1-2 teeth of the gear. All this can lead to extremely negative consequences. For example, a seized engine.

The most alarming signal that will attract the attention of even an inexperienced driver is the characteristic noise emitted by a stretched chain: the rattling and rubbing sound of the chain. This is audible even considering the general noise during engine operation. In this case, it is even possible that the engine stalls, since the chain jumps by 1-2 teeth and the gas distribution is disrupted.

But, it goes without saying that it is better not to bring to such symptoms, but to regularly check the chain tension. You can also focus on the mileage. A chain for an engine of one type or another has a certain average resource (depending on the model and brand of the car). As a rule, this is an indicator of 100 thousand kilometers. To calm your conscience, you can check or replace the timing chain earlier. For example, after 60-80 thousand km.