The Importance of Timing Chain Kits

What is a Timing Chain?

Timing chains are integral, synchronising the upper and lower halves of the engine. One end is connected to the camshaft, which operates the engine valves allowing fuel to enter and exhaust gases to escape the combustion chamber. One end is connected to the crankshaft, which operates the pistons compressing fuel for ignition. All of this moves at just the right time to avoide collision and this is precisely managed by the timing chain.

An engine will have either a timing belt or a timing chain. Chains have over time become the more popular option for vehicle manufacturers to use, mostly down to their increased durability and longevity. There is a common misconception that a chain can last for the entire lifespan of the engine. Despite added durability, chains can still fail so it’s important to keep this in mind when servicing the engine and diagnosing any issues.

The Importance of Fitting a Kit

While they can fail, a chain will rarely break on its own. Typically, if a chain begins to wear or break, it will be another component at fault. In fact, one of the most common causes of timing chain failure is the failure of other components.

If one of the guide rails or tensioners failed, the chain would become loose and begin to rattle. This excessive movement can cause it to wear and become elongated. Additionally, the chain can easily slide over the teeth on the camshaft and crankshaft sprockets causing the engine to become mistimed, eventually leading to a costly collision between the engine valves and pistons.

This is why it is so important to change the entire timing system at the same time. If you were to fit a timing chain but not replace the related components, then the integrity of the whole timing system is already compromised by aging parts.

By replacing the entire timing system as a whole, you eliminate the risk of old parts wearing down the chain. Most garages are even recognising the importance of replacing the camshaft and crankshaft sprockets, further ensuring that the entire timing chain drive is at the highest quality it can be.

GT Automotive Timing Chain Kits

At GT Automotive, our timing chain components come as kits, ensuring you can replace all the necessary parts to keep the chain drive in best health. To facilitate a variety of jobs we have base level kits, which include the bear minimum you need to get the job done, and full kits, which include everything you need to ensure the timing chain and all related components are in the highest quality condition possible.

• Any part number without a suffix is our base kit
• Any part number with the “F” suffix is our full kit
• Any part number with the “A” suffix is our full kit without any VVTs