In recent blog posts, we have been focusing more on vehicles, vehicle technology, how they work and the common causes for failure.

In an earlier post, we looked at the main components of an engine, which might be worth a read before reading this post. If you want to read that blog first, click here. I frequently get asked questions about timing belts, so I've decided to list some of them here, the most common question being, what is a timing belt, so let's get started.

What is a timing chain?

The purpose of any timing device, is to ensure that air and fuel enter the engine at the correct time, exhaust gases are able to exit the car at the right time, that the valves open and close at the correct time and to prevent the pistons coming into contact with the valves. A timing chains looks very similar to the chain you would find on your push bike and is used instead of a timing belt or timing gears.

Timing chains are generally considered to be stronger than timing belts, but like any component, they may still fail. Although the timing chain can snap, it is more likely the chain stretches. If left unchecked, this may lead to the engines timing being unexpectedly altered, which in extreme circumstances can result in catastrophic engine failure.

Should you need a forensic vehicle examiner to assist with your investigation, contact me today and I will arrange a forensic vehicle inspection or alternatively, where the information exists, I can also undertake a desktop assessment.

Contact us today. t 0113 534 8708 | e. enquiry@drivenforensics.co.uk

This post forms part of a series of forensic vehicle examiner posts, where we answer as many of the commonly asked questions we get as a forensic vehicle examiner. Our aim is to answer the most commonly asked questions and to dispel certain myths that lurk. If you have a question for our forensic vehicle examiner, simply drop us an email at enquiry@drivenforeniscs.co.uk