What is the advantage of hiring a professional to replace the drive chain?
The drive chain is made of metal, in older engines it is similar to a chain on a bicycle, while in newer engines a toothed chain is used, located inside the engine because it is lubricated with engine oil. The drive chain does not have a strictly prescribed replacement time, but is replaced if there is a problem with it. Drive chain problems are not uncommon, especially in high mileage vehicles. Much like other moving mechanical components within an engine, the drive chain is subject to wear and tear. Since the drive chain is lubricated by engine oil, lack of regular oil changes, low oil levels or poor quality oil can cause premature wear of the drive chain. Replacing the drive chain requires a good knowledge of the structure of the chain tensioner and how it works. If you are not sure how this works you should hire a professional to do the replacement.
What should you pay attention to when changing the drive chain?
The correct tension of the drive chain is ensured by a chain tensioner that can be mechanical (spring-loaded) or hydraulic, while sliders and chain guides are used to prevent vibration of the drive chain. All these components are also subject to wear and tear. A worn drive chain, sliders, guides, and chain tensioners can also cause a variety of noises in the chain cover area of u200bu200bthe engine. These sounds can range from rattling to buzzing and whining. Replacing the drive chain is extremely expensive, so when buying and replacing it, you need to take care of the quality.
Why should I replace the drive chain?
Replacing the drive chain The drive chain is designed in such a way that it has the same lifespan as the engine. Normally, it should go at least 100,000 km without any problems. What can happen is that the slide rails lose strength. This defect is noticeable through the rattling, which is especially well heard at idle. In this case, the drive chain should be replaced. A loose drive chain can result in less power, and in the worst case, it can pop out of its seat and collide with the valves, which can cause serious engine damage.
What preparations should be made before replacing the drive chain?
Before replacing the drive chain, you should check if it is necessary. To do this, the chain tensioner is removed and checked to see if it works. The chain tensioner is also removed so the drive chain can be replaced. Since the tensioner is easily accessible, engine parts do not need to be removed. The check can therefore be done quickly.
What tools and materials are needed to replace the drive chain?
In order to be able to replace the drive chain, certain tools are required. There are special tool sets for replacing the drive chain. These kits contain, among other things, a fixing bridge and a bracket for fixing the camshaft, a fixing screw, a camshaft wrench and a tensioning tool. The tool must be adapted to the appropriate make and model of the car.
What variants are there when replacing the drive chain?
Instead of installing a new drive chain, it may be possible to retighten the old one. An expert will know exactly if and when this is possible. It can save you a lot of money.
