What happens when a Rubber Timing Belt breaks?

What happens when a Rubber Timing Belt breaks?

In the best-case scenario, when a timing belt breaks, your engine will simply stop running. There is no longer a connection between the camshaft and crankshaft. This is what occurs in a non-interference engine. The overall impact of a broken timing belt does depend on the type of engine installed in your vehicle. Engines are either interference or non-interference. Interference engines gain a bit more compression and provide slightly more power. Smaller engines may be the interference type for this reason. In this configuration, the valves extend into the cylinder a little more than in a non-interference engine. This also means that if the system is not properly timed, the valve may not be out of the way when the piston moves fully upwards. When a timing belt breaks in an interference engine, one or more valves may be stuck in the open position. The pistons will move upwards forcefully, crashing into the open valves. In the best case, your engine will have some broken valves and damaged pistons. In a worst case, the valves and rods can push through the engine cover. Pistons have even been known to crash through oil pans if the crankshaft twists and breaks in the process. The engine is now ruined.

You can perform a search on your make and model vehicle to determine the type of engine installed. However, just because you have a non-interference engine it does not allow you to ignore the timing belt. You will still face expensive repairs if the belt breaks. With regard to questions about how to check a timing belt, this is a job for a qualified repair shop. In the majority of all applications, the timing belt is protected under a cover that is not easy for a novice to remove. Access to the belt requires removing many engine components. If the timing belt shows any signs of cracks or worn out teeth, it really should be replaced immediately. If it has begun to stretch, or is coated in oil, a new belt is advisable. If you have purchased a used car, and do not have any information of the most recent belt change, do take your vehicle in for a belt inspection. Your local Meineke Car Care Center has experienced technicians that you can rely on when you have questions regarding auto maintenance and timing belt noise or symptoms. If you are unsure about when to change a V Belt Global Supply, Meineke has the answers you need.