The timing chain (short for timing) is a simple, but at the same time irreplaceable part, without which no modern car can move. It synchronizes the rotation of the camshaft with the crankshaft, thereby contributing to the coordinated operation of the internal combustion engine. The only thing that can put this is the uneven supply of gasoline to the engine. But more on that later, and today we will consider how long a car needs to replace the timing chain, and what consequences the breakdown of this spare part will lead to.
Why change it?
This part, like the engine, takes enormous loads during operation. After a few thousand kilometers, it can simply break. But the deformation may be incomplete. In the case when at least one tooth comes off the mechanism, the entire chain begins to slip, interruptions in engine operation are observed. In addition, this device is placed in the motor so that even the slightest error in operation can lead to the most unpredictable consequences. Therefore, the timing chain must be replaced in a timely manner. It is advisable to carry a spare part in the trunk, especially if you like long trips.
What will happen if you do not replace in time?
Often the absence of even one tooth in this part leads to damage to the valves, the repair of which takes a lot of time and money. As for diesel engines, they are at the highest risk for the camshaft. In this case, you will have to repair not only it, but also the valves, as well as change the cylinder head gasket. All this, as you already understood, costs a lot of money.
Nuances when changing parts
It is worth noting that replacing the timing chain VAZ 2107-2110 is a rather lengthy process that can take you a whole day (at least 8 hours). By the way, in addition to the chain itself, you have to buy new idler pulleys. You do not need to save on them, because due to poor-quality parts, replacing the timing chain will be very, very fast, and it is not a fact that the car will travel 100 kilometers before that.
Operation resource
This characteristic depends on the brand of car. For example, a VAZ timing chain is replaced every 50-60 thousand kilometers. But you should not hope that the part will last exactly 60 thousand. Therefore, at least every month you need to check the status of this part. But on many modern cars, it is simply impossible to visually check the current state of the circuit, so some cars are equipped with special sensors on the instrument panel that signal possible breakdowns of this part.
Useful advice for those who recently purchased a used car
If you bought a used car, SUV or truck, be sure to replace the chain. And you need to do this even if the previous owner assured you that it was recently changed before the sale. Thus, the risk of damage to the camshaft and valves will be reduced to zero, and the car will travel more without breakdowns (especially if it was bought 500 kilometers from the house).