Mazda Timing Belt
The Mazda timing belt or sometimes called a timing chain or cam belt is an integral
part of the engine system that manages the timing of the engine’s valves. Its
prime function is to turn the camshaft at precisely ½ speed of the crankshaft
while keeping an exact alignment. This means that the crankshaft has to make two
revolutions for every revolution of the camshaft. Engines usually use at least
one camshaft, or as many as four camshafts for some V-type engines. The camshaft
is the device that triggers the intake and exhaust to open and close in synch
with the piston that moves up and down inside the cylinders. The valves must open
and close precisely at the right instant relatively to the piston’s motion. This
is needed in order for the engine to perform properly.
There are specifically two engine types that make use of timing belts: the interference
engines and non-interference engines. The difference is characterized only in
the proximity between the valves and the pistons. On interference engines, when
the timing belt fails and slips even one notch, the piston can collide into an
open valve resulting to serious engine failures due to bended valves and broken
pistons. On the other hand, on non-interference engines, it would not usually
self destruct, but instead, if the timing belt fails, it will immediately shut
down, leaving you stranded.
The Mazda timing belt provides better flexibility in relation to the locations
of the crankshaft and camshafts. These timing belts provide quieter operations
compared to gears and chains and are greatly less expensive and are mechanically
more efficient. The timing belts are usually inaccessible and hard to inspect.
That is why it is recommended for it to be changed at regular intervals to prevent
total failure that can cause your engine to malfunction. You can consult your
owner’s manual to know its regular replacement intervals at what mileage that
the timing belt should be replaced.
Typical standard intervals for Mazda timing belts usually ranges from every 60,000
miles to every 105,000 miles per distant traveled. It may fail without a warning
on some vehicles and are almost hard to check. So your only protection is to change
it at proper intervals for your peace of mind. Some technicians recommend that
the water pump be replaced along with the timing belt since the labor cost of
having the timing belt changed has already been done and it is a good insurance
to replace the pump at this time.
The Mazda timing belt is made to have exceptional resistance to abrasion and
thus, extended pulley and belt life is guaranteed. It runs quieter and is more
economical compared to chain devices. Its premium grade non-stretch cord will
provide accurate length stability, keeping your engine running smoothly throughout
the belt’s life. For every Mazda model, there are specific designs for every application
ranging from normal service to high performance Mazda timing belts and Mazda auto
parts.
