News and Notes - The "Skinny" on Timing Belts (click on thumbnails for larger view)

Four-cycle internal combustion engines use a "camshaft" to open and close the intake and exhaust valves. This shaft has an egg-shaped "cam" for each valve that pushes open the intake and exhaust valves in the proper sequence.  

The camshaft is "timed" or synchronized with the crankshaft. Two revolutions of the crankshaft to one revolution of the camshaft. No matter how fast or slow the engine goes, this timing stays the same. The timing belt has rounded "teeth" that engage with sprockets on the crankshaft and camshaft.

Replacement of the timing belt is not especially difficult although there is usually quite a bit of disassembly to gain access to it. We suggest the outer drive belts and water pump be replaced at the same time since water pumps are driven by the timing belt and the outer belts must be removed anyway. It is in your (the client's) best interest to do these items together as it represents the best use of your repair dollar. Since this function is critical to the life and operation of the engine, we strongly recommend using only original parts.