Demand for timing chains has seen a significant growth in recent years as popular vehicle manufacturers have opted to integrate the chain system into their engines. The shift of interest towards chain systems across all makes and engine sizes has presented a new and exciting set of challenges for the aftermarket.

DID YOU KNOW?

There is a general misconception that a timing chain will last for the life of a vehicle. However, chains, sprockets and other components will actually stretch and wear over time. This is especially prevalent in vehicles that are poorly maintained and oil change intervals are not adhered to.

CRITICAL COMPONENTS OF THE TIMING CHAIN SYSTEM

The timing chain system comprises four critical components – the chain, guides, tensioner and sprockets.

CHAIN

BGA considers the timing chain as the “heart of the engine”. Connecting the crankshaft to the camshaft, it controls the opening and closing of the engine valves.

GUIDES

Chain guides are used to keep the timing chain from vibrating.

TENSIONER

Ensures that the timing chain is kept under proper tension.

SPROCKETS

Transfer the power from the crankshaft to the chain, to camshafts. It is also important to note that engines with variable valve timing (VVT) also require additional sprockets specifically for the VVT system to maintain the accurate timing required to function accordingly.

ALWAYS REPLACE ASSOCIATED PARTS

When replacing one engine component, it is best practice to replace all associated parts. By doing this, the condition of the timing components are uniform to help optimise the service lifespan of the system.

Installers are now recognising the importance of replacing the sprockets with the timing chain, tensioner and guides (all in BGA’s Full Kit (FK)). This change in purchasing habits has surfaced due to a greater understanding of the impact of sprockets:

• Part repair can result in premature/instant failure
• As the timing system is a precision system, failure of one part will compromise the others
• Dirty sprockets (oil contaminated) will impede performance of other components
• Hooked sprockets will damage the chain and severely limit its lifespan

As a result, BGA’s Full Kit (FK) and Full Kit with VVT Sprockets (VFK) have seen a surge in installer demand.

BGA TIMING CHAIN KIT OPTIONS

KIT (K) – Chain, tensioner and guides

FULL KIT (FK) – Contents of (K) plus sprockets, timing cover gasket, oil seal, feed pipe and bolts

VVT KIT (VFK) – Contents of (FK) with the addition of VVT sprocket(s)