Key Questions to Ask When Ordering Automotive Timing Belts

When buying a timing belt kit there are some questions: Should I replace the water pump at the same time as the timing belt?

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The water pump is directly adjacent to the timing belt in most engines. Because getting to the timing belt is such a labor-intensive job, it’s a good idea to take this opportunity to replace the water pump at the same time because of the effort required to get down to either one of these items. Besides, both of these items tend to have a similar lifetime. For this reason, doing this labor-intensive job at the same time is the smart play.

But… What happens If I don’t replace the water pump?

Not replacing all the components during a timing belt change means if the water pump does go at a later point, you will have to pay for the same labour twice because probably the water pump has worn out because of use anyway, and will need replacing sooner than later.

That’s why at Industrias Dolz we always recommend to get both, the timing belt and the water pump, replaced at the same time.

The advantage of this dual replacement is to offer the best long-lasting repair while preventing risks of engine breakage. And last, but not least, more savings for your pocket.

Let’s see below this three things to consider when choosing a timing belt and water pump replacement:

• Half of interventions: the vehicle is immobilized less times.
• Savings for the end user (On average, 5 hours of labor less)
• Better repair, since each component of the timing belt system is replaced at the same time.

How to choose the right timing belt set for your car

First and foremost, do your research. There are some key features that increase the likelihood of your new timing belt kit becoming a successful choice.

Don’t hesitate, choose an all-inclusive kit. It’s better to know that your timing belt kit contains all components you need for its renewal. Not just the timing belt itself.

Another factor to consider before ordering is the part number. Make sure the kit is the correct one and it fits with your vehicle.

Aspects to consider when choosing a timing belt kit

A new timing belt kit gives you peace of mind that your vehicle will run optimally for a long time. For that, there are some aspects you should closely look at to make sure you have an excellent result. With the proper parts, your engine will last for many years.

Below are some of the most important points you should consider before choosing a timing belt kit.

Manufacturing

Experience and capabilities are two important aspects to consider when choosing the right manufacturer of your timing belt kit.

It’s important also that they have the expertise for your specific product. And also other additional supports as technical specifications of the product to identify exactly how the item(s) should turn out, comfort guarantee and quality.

So, as you can see, a manufacturer with years of history can offer you backed by a wide knowledge and many years of experience.

Materials

The quality of the raw materials used in manufacturing distribution kits will be vital for its lifetime, providing extended durability and proper performance. The manufacturer must ensure the materials are acceptable for use because if the products are manufactured with low-quality, they will not stand up and you won’t get the expected result.

Dolz are committed to quality! Let’s see below:

• WATER PUMPS are designed according to OE specifications.
• 95% of the range is manufactured with Silicon Carbide Dynamic Seal, that guarantees its optimum tightness and durability. Also, an automatized manufacturing process that guarantees excellent quality.
• At Industrias Dolz, we are one of the few manufacturers who have die-cast aluminum.
• TIMING BELT always premium OE quality.
• Resist temperature variation, water and oil. And optimized lifetime.
• IDLERS resist temperature variation and vibrations of the engine environment.
• Usage of high-quality raw materials and grease to ensure efficiency. Besides, tested under the same conditions as per OE specifications.

Original Equipment Parts (OE)

In terms of quality, OE parts are beneficial to the performance of a vehicle.

Premium OE quality components are engineered and manufactured to the highest standards to perform according to OE vehicle manufacturer intended.

Non-genuine components do not have the same performance guarantees and as a result, due to a low quality the replacement of the elements will take place multiple times over the lifespan of OE quality parts. 

For this reason, at Industrias Dolz we make several inspections at various stages during the OE quality manufacturing process to ensure that our products always meet specifications.

Download our Timing belt kits catalog!

Are you interested in learning more about Automotive Timing Belts? Contact us today to secure an expert consultation!

Discover Dolz’s timing belt kit

DOLZ’s range of timing belt kits is now available with and without water pumps. Each Dolz kit includes all the components required for the replacement: water pump and gasket when necessary, OE supplier timing belt, idlers and tensioners matching OE standards, and all components required for the mounting (screws, bolts, and mounting tips when needed). 

Knowledge and experience at your service. With more than 200 distribution kits representing top sales in Europe and a wide range offering 90% coverage of the European fleet.

Features:

With Dolz Kits, you will find two options available: All-include kits with water pump (KD) and the option without water pump (SKD). Both options are manufactured to the same specifications as OE and are guaranteed for 2 years from date of purchase or 50.000 km

Did you miss the DOLZ Kits Unboxing on our Youtube’s Official Channel? Have a look!

Dolz kits include all what you deserve.

Many people are confused by a timing belt. Not every engine has one, but those that do require replacement at a specific mileage or time interval. Timing belts offer a number of advantages, such as light weight and precise timing over their lives. The timing belt is also far less affected by lubrication problems than a chain or gear drive. Like any piece of rubber, a timing belt will deteriorate in time. To know if your engine has a timing belt, it is best to refer to the owner's manual or ask to a trusted professional.

How timing belts work

 

They design a timing belt with teeth that mesh with grooves in the crankshaft and camshaft sprockets. This arrangement allows the timing belt to keep the camshaft and crankshaft in perfect time. Engineers normally provide a tensioner which keeps the timing belt tight.

Timing belts are made of a very durable rubber, with layers of cord to prevent stretching. This arrangement provides years of trouble free service and precise valve timing.  Eventually the rubber and cords begin to deteriorate.  They recommend replacing the timing belt for this reason.  The recommended replacement interval for a timing belt varies, depending on several factors. The design of the engine and the age of the belt determines when it should be replaced, and vehicle manufacturers provide guidelines which must be followed.

Interference and non-interference engines

We often hear engines referred to as interference and non-interference types. An interference engine is one where the engine valves, and pistons occupy the same place, just not at the same time. On an interference engine, the valves will hit the pistons, if the timing belt breaks or slips. The result will be engine damage.

They use interference designs because they allow more horsepower. The drawback is an elevated risk of the belt breaking or slipping. Pushing such an engine beyond the recommended time or age interval is very unwise.

For a list of popular Asian and Domestic interference engines, please click here.

When they build an engine for lower performance, the valves do not extend as far into the cylinders. They call these engines non-interference type. This is a bit misleading as under the wrong conditions, any engine may suffer damage if the valve timing is off. The name, non-interference sometimes lulls people into a false sense of security.

When timing belts slip or break, at least the engine will stop running and other damage can occur. An engine listed as non-interference does NOT mean it is safe to neglect timing belt replacement. Timing belts are normally recommended between 60,000 and 105,000 miles. The interference type engines are closer to the lower end and the non-interference type closer to the higher end.

The age factor 

Time is perhaps more important than miles, in the life of a timing belt. Seven years is the maximum life of the timing belt, recommended by most manufacturers.

For instance, even if the engine has only 30,000 miles, but is seven years of age, the belt should be replaced. The timing belt in the photo above is eight years old, and only has 30,000 miles of use. Because timing belts deteriorate with age, time is even more critical than miles. More timing belts break due to age than mileage.

Things replaced with the timing belt 

Replacing a timing belt normally involves a good deal of effort.  Because of this, there are several other components in near proximity, that might also be replaced. For instance, the water pump, if under the timing cover, can be replaced at a greatly reduced price. Because water pumps wear out, many people see the wisdom of replacing it when the belt is replaced.  Not replacing these components often results in an expensive re-do of the timing belt job.  Doing a complete job is far less expensive and less dangerous than having to do the job over.

Other components often recommended include:

• Idler pulley(s)
• Timing belt tensioner(s)
• Accessory belt(s)
• Cam shaft seal(s)
• Front crankshaft seal
• Oil pump seal (if present)
• Balance shaft belt (if present)
• Balance shaft seal (if present)

Beware the belt-slap

When pricing a timing belt replacement, we must know what we are buying. Some companies quote a price for replacing the belt alone. Quality auto repair shops refer to this as a belt slap. This may seem like a savings, until they call back with the real cost.

Perhaps worse is only replacing the belt, only to have another component fail. For instance, if the water pump fails, ten-thousand miles after the timing belt is replaced. Repair means another full disassembly and the water pump can actually cause the replaced timing belt to break.

Another problem is a seal that starts to leak after timing belt replacement. The seal could have been replaced for a minimum cost while the timing belt was off. Now many of the same components must again be removed. Worse, the oil from the leaking seal can ruin a new timing belt. Remember, you never get more than you pay for.

Upper view partially disassembled timing belt

Lower view, partially disassembled timing belt

A timing belt is not the same as a serpentine belt 

Vehicles are also equipped with exterior belts and serpentine belts.  Folks sometimes confuse these and think replacing the outside belts is the same as the timing belt.  The timing belt is inside of the engine.  If your vehicle is seven years old or older, check to see if it is equipped with a timing belt.  If so, be sure the timing belt has been replaced.  This can save an engine, in many cases.

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