5.5. Vehicle Engine Maintenance: Belts

The maintenance of a vehicle's engine is a crucial part of ensuring the proper functioning and longevity of your car. In this chapter, we'll focus on maintaining a specific engine component - the belts.

What are straps?

The belts are essential components that allow the synchronized operation of various parts of the engine. They connect and synchronize the rotation of the crankshaft, which provides the power of the engine, with the camshaft, which controls the entry and exit of gases in the engine. In addition, the belts also drive other auxiliary components such as the water pump, alternator and power steering pump.

Types of Belts

There are basically two types of belts on a vehicle engine: the timing belt (or timing belt) and the V-belt (or accessory belt).

The timing belt is responsible for synchronizing the rotation of the crankshaft and the camshaft. The failure of this belt can cause serious damage to the engine, as it can lead to collision between pistons and valves.

The V-belt, on the other hand, is responsible for driving auxiliary components of the engine, such as the alternator, the power steering pump and the water pump. Failure of this belt can lead to problems such as engine overheating, power steering system failure or battery drain.

Belt Maintenance

Belt maintenance is a task that must be carried out periodically and basically consists of visual inspection and belt replacement.

At the visual inspection, you should look for signs of wear such as cracks, frays, signs of drying out, or if the belt is too loose or too tight. If any of these signs are observed, the belt must be replaced.

The replacement of the belts should be done in accordance with the vehicle manufacturer's recommendations, which are generally based on the vehicle's mileage. However, even if the recommended replacement mileage has not been reached, if the belt shows signs of wear, it must be replaced.

It is important to remember that the replacement of the belts must be done by a qualified professional, as it requires technical knowledge and the use of specific tools.

Conclusion

In summary, belts are essential components of your vehicle's engine and their maintenance is crucial for the proper functioning and longevity of the engine. Belt maintenance includes visual inspection and belt replacement, which should be done in accordance with the vehicle manufacturer's recommendations or when signs of wear are observed.

Although belt maintenance may seem like a simple task, it is a task that requires technical knowledge and the use of specific tools, so it is advisable that it be carried out by a qualified professional.

Maintaining your engine belts in good condition not only ensures smooth running of the engine, but also prevents costly and unexpected repairs.