This belt should not be confused with a timing belt, which serves a completely different purpose. While the timing belt keeps the crankshaft and camshaft in sync., the auxiliary drive belt is what keeps the engine accessories running smoothly and efficiently.

Auxiliary drive belt: What is it?

An auxiliary drive belt consists of a long rubber belt that propels power to engine components via a system of pulleys that are driven by the main crankshaft pulley. These engine components include:

• Alternator
• Air conditioning compressor
• Power steering pump
• Water pump (in some vehicles)

Its wide, flat, and often toothed design makes it a requisite for today’s engines, as it can power different accessories at once. This is essential in modern engine bays where space is restricted, as opposed to multiple drive belts used mostly in outdated car models.

Keep reading: Understanding timing belt components and how to maintain it

Poly-V belts are now made of high-quality reinforced rubber, (EPDM) Ethylene Propylene Diene Monomer rubber ensuring a long service life. Although like timing belts, these are also subject to wear, so they will deteriorate over time.

As the auxiliary drive belt is naturally long, it is wise to have idler pulleys and/or a tensioner pulley in it. These keep the belt tensioned so that it does not deviate from its direction, and so that it applies the exact friction to the pulleys.

Difference between auxiliary belt and timing belt

Understanding the distinction between the auxiliary drive belt and the timing belt is important:

• Timing Belt: Synchronizes the movement of the camshaft and crankshaft to ensure proper engine operation, and failure can cause catastrophic engine damage.
• Auxiliary Drive Belt: Powers accessories like the alternator, power steering pump, and air conditioning. A failure will disrupt accessory function but generally won’t damage the engine itself.

Article of interest: 5 warning signs it’s time to replace the timing belt

What happens when the auxiliary belt breaks?

When a car’s auxiliary drive belt breaks, all the accessories that depend on it will stop working or not work as they should. This can lead to various issues, including:

• Loss of power steering to A/B escape, making the vehicle difficult to control.
• Air conditioning failure, resulting in a lack of cool air.
• Battery drain, as the alternator stops charging the battery.
• Engine overheating if the water pump is driven by the belt.

Unlike a broken timing belt, a broken poly-v belt will not directly cause catastrophic engine damage, but can still cause significant inconvenience and safety risks.

Problems associated with auxiliary drive belts

Serpentine belts can fail due to various reasons, including:

1. Belt wear: Over time, the belt’s rubber material deteriorates.
2. Misalignment: Often caused by worn pulleys or tensioners.
3. Contamination: Oil or coolant leaks can weaken the belt material.

Complete belt failure is often the result of ignoring these problems. The most serious complications occur when the drive belt breaks completely as a result of a belt in poor condition, or a problem associated with one of the components driven by the belt; for example, a failure of a bearing in a pulley.

Signs of a malfunctioning auxiliary drive belt

When inspecting the poly-v belt, pay attention to the following indicators in order to confirm whether the drive belt needs replacement:

• Deep cracking and wear in the ribs and spine of the belt.
• A shiny, glazed and/or frayed appearance showing signs of age
• A hardened surface showing a substantial loss of flexibility.
• Belt contamination with oil or coolant due to other vehicle issues.

Although all these potential issues can be easily detected during a routine inspection, every auxiliary belt car has its unique characteristics. For instance, an EPDM belt will not crack like traditional neoprene rubber belts and will need to have the rib valleys inspected with a belt wear gauge. So, take each individual model into consideration.

Keep learning: Car temperature: Key aspect in a vehicle’s performance

Consequences of a malfunctioning aux belt

Failure in an auxiliary drive belt can cause many different consequences on your engine and can be potentially dangerous. When inspecting the auxiliary drive belt system, pay attention to the following signals to confirm if the drive belt needs to be replaced:

• Difficulty in steering the vehicle or no power steering at all.
• Engine overheating and unstable marks showing on the temperature gauge.
• A malfunctioning air conditioning with no cool air blowing out from the vents.
• A dying battery that will eventually die without the alternator’s charge.
• Squealing sounds in the front area of the car and/or a whine from the engine.

These problems can escalate quickly, so timely maintenance is essential.

Dolz: the perfect dealer of auxiliary drive belts

Dolz has been providing top-notch, OE-equivalent parts for passenger cars, trucks and commercial vehicles since 1934. With nearly 90 years of knowledge and experience, our presence has now expanded to more than 70 countries around the world.

Following our mission and completing our wide range of transmission products, we recently introduced our range of auxiliary drive kits available for dealers and workshops around the globe. Designed and produced following OE specifications, our kits offer greater engine performance and comfort.

In order to make your life easier and to secure effortless replacements, these kits include all the necessary components for a professional repair, all in one single package: 

• V-ribbed belt or auxiliary drive belt
• Pulleys and idlers
• Drive tensioners 
• All the necessary accessories when needed.

Contact us so that we can facilitate a tailored solution, as well as guidance throughout the whole selection process.

La entrada Auxiliary drive belt: What is it and why should you care? se publicó primero en Industrias Dolz.

These car parts are subject to great forces inside the vehicle’s engine. For this reason, every vehicle that has a timing belt will require a new timing belt replacement at some point during its life. Without a fully functioning timing belt, the car’s engine won’t be able to run properly.

When to replace the timing belt?

Timing belts are strong and highly efficient but being constantly under stress and operating in high heat environments make them impossible to last forever. However, drivers widely forget that timing belts must be replaced on a regular basis. Then, when to replace a timing belt?

The largely depends on the manufacturer and model of each vehicle, so first thing to do is check your owner’s manual for specific recommendations.

In many cases, there might be no apparent indication that a timing belt is becoming worn. Often, it just breaks. That’s why, when it comes to timing belts, prevention is by far the best solution.

Related content: Expert advice: when should you carry out a car timing belt replacement

5 warning signs to detect timing belt failure

There are a few warning signs that can help you diagnose when you need a new timing belt, but it is important to remember that prevention is the key to an optimal car maintenance, as there are no certain clues to indicate a worn belt that may be close to snapping.

Listed below are five key signs to be aware of that may help you determine if it’s time to check and get a new timing belt.

1. Engine misfires

Timing belts run through a system of pulleys that operate both the camshaft and the crankshaft. The teeth they use for this are meant to grip and move smoothly, but if the timing belt starts to wear out, it may create a repetitive clicking or ticking sound coming from inside the engine. 

2. Smoke after starting the vehicle’s engine

Belt wear and stretching damages the catalyst, as the fuel is not completely burned in the chambers due to an incorrect composition of mixture fuel. That means: all the fuel that has not been consumed is directed to the exhaust system. If you hear a clicking noise when starting the engine and see black smoke coming from the vehicle’s exhaust pipe, this indicates an incorrect fuel composition that may be due, among many others, to damage to the timing belt.

3. Difficulty starting

A worn timing belt will affect your engine’s starting speed as it is attached to the pulleys that drive the crankshaft. Eventually, the belt can slip on the camshaft drive causing the engine cylinder to open and close at the wrong time.

The stretching or wear of the timing belt will cause it to skip one or more teeth, and therefore as a result the engine ignition is lengthened, in addition, as we have already mentioned, the jumps or slips of the belt cause the desynchronization of the engine.

4. Belt appearance

If we are inspecting our vehicle, or we are about to make a visit to the garage, the first sign that will indicate that the belt is worn is its appearance. It is possible to see small cracks throughout the entire piece. If the cracks are enlarged, then the internal threads of the cracks can be seen. In addition, another sign is the detachment of small pieces or fragments of the belt material that will end up falling inside the entire engine.

5. Loss of voltage

Another sign of advanced belt wear is high elongation. When this occurs, there is a loss of tension which makes the deflection force of the belt less. This will lead to belt slipping in the first place or worse, belt dropping during engine operation. Belt slippage or skipping will lead to engine out of sync and this can lead to piston/cam collision resulting in catastrophic engine failure.

DOLZ TIP:

Timing belts must be in good shape order for your car to properly start. If your belt has been damaged, you will most likely hear the starter engage when you turn your key but the engine will not ignite.

In case your timing belt is broken inside, it won’t be possible for your engine to start working, since your timing belt is what engages your crank and camshaft, it won’t turn over. If this happens in addition to any of the above warning signs, it is probably that the problem is due to a snapped timing belt.

Calling a professional for advice is the only sensible solution here. If the problem is caused by the timing belt, there is a high chance it results in the damage of other engine compartments, so the situation could be rather serious.

Keep reading: Things to consider when choosing a timing belt kit

Dolz Timing Belt Kit, the best replacement option

The replacement of the water pump or the timing belt are two of the most common operations in a garage. In our experience, it is much more cost-effective and safer to replace them for preventive reasons than to wait for them to break down and stop working altogether.

In addition, by replacing these two components together, you will save on labor, reduce the number of visits to the workshop and will improve both the quality and safety of the intervention.

DOLZ offers premium timing belts; 100% tested and equivalent to OE:

• Timing belt: resistant to changes in temperature, water and oil, thus ensuring an optimized durability.
• Idlers: high-quality raw materials and grease to ensure the highest efficiency.
• Water pump: manufactured with a silicon carbide seal. It is designed following the original specifications

Do you need to replace your timing belt? And the water pump? Contact us to know more about our full timing belt kits, they include all necessary components for an optimum timing belt replacement.

La entrada 5 warning signs it’s time to replace the timing belt se publicó primero en Industrias Dolz.

La entrada Things to consider when choosing a timing belt kit se publicó primero en Industrias Dolz.

In this video, you will find the distribution kit with water pump KD153V that includes the variable water pump A255V.

The Industrias Dolz timing belt kit range has more than 230 references, which are available in different catalogues including the TecDoc (TecAlliance) electronic catalog.

The main characteristics of our Timing Belt Kits are:

• All our components have been tested and are equivalent to OE.
• Always with the latest OE version, to guarantee an effective, efficient and durable timing belt replacement.
• Easy-Fit with all the necessary components for a correct installation.
• Technical Bulletin if necessary.
• All our components are marked with our brand.
• A careful and innovative high-quality packaging: exclusive space inside the box for the belt in order to achieve the maximum protection of each component.
• Presence in TecDoc electronic catalog (TecAlliance).
• 2-year warranty from the date of purchase or 80,000 km.

For further information, do not hesitate to contact us at www.idolz.com/contact. 

In case you missed it… DOLZ New To Range July 25 including the addition of variable water pumps specifically designed for Land Rover applications

La entrada Unboxing Dolz: Timing belt kit se publicó primero en Industrias Dolz.

It is one of the most important components of a vehicle. If it is damaged or broken, it can lead to serious damage to the engine, so it is essential to know and check its condition.

In today’s article we answer some common queries about the timing belt service and when the replacement is necessary.

Timing belt or timing chain: what does my car have?

Depending on the kind of car you have, your setup will either have a timing belt or a chain.

The easiest way to find out if your vehicle has a timing chain in its distribution or, on the contrary, your engine is driven by a timing belt, is to check if there is a plastic cover on the side of the engine or not. If so, the engine is fitted with a timing belt. If there is no plastic cover then it has a timing chain.

Although both elements are in constant development, most modern vehicles are now fitted with a timing chain rather than a timing belt. Both perform the same function, connecting the camshaft to the crankshaft, but they differ essentially in their materials.

The chain is made up of small metal links while the timing belt is made of rubber. Hence the chain mechanism is more durable and subject to less wear.

Timing Belt Service Timeline: replacement recommendations

Replacing the belt at the manufacturer’s recommended interval is essential to ensure the engine lifespan. At Dolz we always point that preventive maintenance is a much cheaper job than mandatory maintenance.

If the timing belt drives the water pump, it is 100% recommended not only to replace the timing belt, but also the water pump and other associated parts such as the tensioner, idlers, or pulleys, due to water pump and the timing belt replacements are two of the most common operations in a workshop.

When replacing the timing belt there are some aspects such as belt tension, alignment of timing marks and the associated parts may be unnoticed. Therefore, some of the indications to consider during the replacement are:

1. All-inclusive kit.

By purchasing all the necessary parts that you need for the assembly (the timing belt, the pump, the seal, the idlers, the nuts…), you will ensure that all components are perfectly matched to ensure optimum performance.

2. Alignment of timing marks.

Be sure to align the timing marks following the original manufacturer’s service recommendations. The proper mesh of the two timing gears assures proper relationships between the valves and pistons.

3. Flush the cooling circuit.

Once you have removed and replaced the timing components, all that remains is to flush and refill the cooling system with the right coolant.

It is really important to know that under no circumstances should the engine be started without first filling the circuit, as this ‘dry function’ would cause the elements of the mechanical seal of the water pump to degrade. On the other hand, it is essential that the coolant meets the characteristics required by the manufacturer (otherwise it can directly damage the entire system and the engine).

How to check your timing belt

In general, most timing belts are housed behind protective covers and engine parts, because of this, perform a visual inspection of the belt is not an easy task.

During the visual inspection, first of all, examine the outside of the belt. If you detect that it is frayed, visibly worn or cracked on either side of the belt, it is time to replace it.

Another key point is found in the tension of the belt. If the tensioner fails, certain problems will arise whether the timing belt is too tight or loose, directly affecting the timing service of the crankshaft and camshaft and prematurely wearing the timing belt.

Signs of a worn-out timing belt

In addition to visual inspection, there are some signs to look out for that will help us diagnose a problem with the timing belt. Among the main warning signs are:

• Engine doesn’t start.
• Oil leak under the hood.
• Engine misfires.
• A loss of power or acceleration.
• ‘Ticking’ or squealing sound.

If you notice any of these indicators, it is essential that you go to your trusted workshop as soon as possible to carry out a professional replacement and thus prevent engine damage.

Related content: Unboxing: Timing Belt Kit DOLZ (KD153V)

Dolz Timing Belt Kits, your complete solution

DOLZ Kits have been designed for the most popular applications in Europe, ensuring a professional replacement and providing premium timing belt kits; 100% tested that meet all OEM performance requirements:

• Timing belt: exceptional resistance to abrasion; resulting in extended pulley and belt life and a high resistance to oil and engine heat.
• Idlers: high-quality raw materials and grease to ensure the highest efficiency.
• Water pump: manufactured with a silicon carbide seal. It is designed following the original specifications.

With two options available: kits with the water pump included (KD) and an option without the water pump (SKD), both alternatives are guaranteed for 2 years from date of purchase or 80.000 km.

Still have questions about your timing belt? Our team at Dolz is ready to help you. Contact us for tailored advice on choosing your best option for your timing belt replacement!

La entrada Timing Belt Service Guide: Tips, Techniques and Best practices se publicó primero en Industrias Dolz.

What is a timing belt used for?

Timing belts are a key component for any vehicle’s functioning (being timing chains their alternative), since these synchronize the crankshaft and camshaft in response to the opening and closing of the exhaust valves.

Timing belts have two different sides, an internal one that is characterized by being toothed and an external one that is smooth and where the tensioners are supported, which make the belt stay attached, in addition to other elements such as the water pump.

Being largely dependent on the water pump, both components require taking care off and maintenance.

Water pump and timing belt: When should I replace them?

The fact that timing belts and water pumps have such a long service interval makes it easy for users to disattend and underestimate the eventual need for a replacement of these. The dependency between both components arises from the fact that the timing belt usually drives the water pump.

Dolz recommends following the recommendations specified in the car’s owner’s manual, depending on each model, this replacement will be made sooner or later. However, a timing belt’s failure does not necessarily mean that the water pump is in bad condition. Having said this, it is strongly recommended both parts being replaced simultaneously, as per the reasons exhibited bellow. 

Related content: Expert advice: when should you carry out a car timing belt replacement

3 reasons to replace the water pump and the timing belt at once

The main three reasons are: their relationship, savings and safe maintaining. Let’s break them down:

1. Relationship between the timing belt and the water pump

Replacing the water pump or the timing belt are two of the most common operations in a workshop. While the water pump is designed as a cooling system component in charge of preventing the engine from overheating, it is driven by the timing belt and it derives its power from the crankshaft of the engine. This means that if the timing belt is in bad condition, the water pump will start to malfunction sooner than later.

On the other side, if the water pump fails independently, the belt will possibly have to be removed first anyway for the water pump to be replaced. This is because in many cases, in order to reach the water pump, the access remains past the timing belt.

2. Cost and labor savings

A joint replacement of both components will be beneficial to the vehicle’s engine and your pocket. The timing belt and water pump replacement cost is definitely something to catch an eye on.

Not replacing the water pump during a timing belt change means if the pump fails at a later stage, the investment will be close to double. The labor involved in dissembling the engine to access these parts in particular is complicated and time-consuming, and can take from a few hours to a full day of work.

Replacing both at the same time accounts for money and time saving, as much of the preparatory work and chargeable time have already been done. It is also a way of ensuring best maintenance practices and avoiding undetected failures that can result in unexpected and expensive engine repairs.

3. Ensuring a safe maintenance

Making sure the water pump is in optimal conditions is essential to avoid overheating of the engine, even though sometimes the signals might seem out of sight.

Waiting for a water pump to develop a problem is risky. Furthermore, pumps and belts need to be matched at times, and replacement kits are an ideal way to provide degrees of assurance while preventing future engine problems.

Keep reading: Common questions about water pumps

Industrias Dolz: worldwide leader in aftermarket vehicle parts

Searching for the ultimate timing belt and water pump solutions? Dolz’s range of Timing Belt Kits include everything you need to ensure the proper functioning of the engine and the cooling system.

From timing belt, to water pump, tensioners and screws required for assembly, at Dolz we put our nearly 90 years of knowledge and experience at your service to provide you an optimal replacement of your spare parts. Contact us!

La entrada Water pump and timing belt: 3 reasons to replace both of them at the same time se publicó primero en Industrias Dolz.

Timing belts in vehicles offer an alternative to traditional timing chains, forming the crux of a vehicle’s timing system responsible for its seamless functioning. This system orchestrates a dance between components crucial for a vehicle’s operational prowess.

Within this choreography, the timing belt emerges as a conductor, synchronizing the movements of the crankshaft and the camshafts. This synchronization is pivotal in ensuring that the engine’s valves open and close in harmony with the pistons’ motion.

However, this synchronized performance isn’t indefinite. Over time, the timing belt faces wear and tear, necessitating the vital process of timing belt replacement. This proactive approach is vital to avert potential engine breakdowns due to a failing timing belt.

This synchronization plays out across the four distinctive phases of the engine’s combustion cycle, each bearing its significance:

1. Intake: The intake phase involves the intake valve opening to allow the precise mixture of air and fuel to enter the engine’s combustion chamber, setting the stage for the power generation process.
2. Compression: The compression phase follows, where both the intake and exhaust valves remain closed. The piston then compresses the air-fuel mixture to prepare it for ignition.
3. Power: The power phase marks the moment of ignition. The spark plug ignites the compressed air-fuel mixture, resulting in a controlled explosion that forcefully drives the piston downward.
4. Exhaust: The final phase, exhaust, sees the exhaust valve opening as the piston moves back up. This action expels the burned gases from the combustion chamber to make way for the next cycle.

Characteristics of a timing belt 

The timing belt is a rubber belt with hard teeth that interlock with the cogwheels of the crankshaft and the camshafts. In many modern engines, timing belts have replaced metal timing chains as a quieter and lighter alternative, while remaining fairly durable.

Even though timing belts are durable and highly efficient, they are constantly under stress and subject to great forces inside the vehicle’s engine. Operating in high heat environments makes them impossible to last forever, so vehicles will require a timing belt replacement at some point during its life.

Timing belt kit components

Timing belt kits were born as a more reliable, convenient and accessible way to carry out timing belt replacements and repairs. For this reason, the pump market has evolved towards complete one box solutions that include the timing belt together with the rollers, bearings and screws required to correctly change the vehicle’s distribution, as well as an optional water pump.

The reason why most quality timing belt kits include a water pump in its components, is because it is highly recommendable to replace both components at the same time. In most cases, doing so will save costs and labour, as well as ensuring a predictive and safe form of maintenance.

Related content: Things to consider when choosing a timing belt kit

When should you carry out a car timing belt replacement?

All the components of the distribution kit, including the water pump, are key elements for the proper cooling and operating of any vehicle’s engine and cooling system. 

Timing belts are therefore a maintenance item; they can wear out and fail without warning. Then, when to replace a timing belt? It should be replaced on a regular basis. Typically, timing belts should be changed every 4-5 years second usage.

However, the first principle for optimum maintenance is reading your owner’s manual, as every manufacturer differs. It pays to know which kind of engine you have and what are its recommended replacement intervals.

Timing belt replacement recommendations

Regular checks are the most effective way to save you money and avoid problems in the long run. The frequency of your replacements will depend on many factors, including the age of your current belt, the distance travelled and the model of your car. 

Prevention is key to an optimal car maintenance, as there are usually no certain clues to indicate a worn belt that may be close to snapping. If you have a decent maintenance schedule in place, you can avoid the additional wear and tear that will result in problematic warning signs.

Because water pumps and timing belts are so closely related in terms of their functioning, and because access to them usually requires removing both parts, distribution kits including both components are largely preferred by car workshops for maximum efficiency.

You should read: 5 warning signs it’s time to replace the timing belt

Premium car Timing belt kits for garages

Industrias Dolz offers premium timing belt kits in the aftermarket, which are 100% tested and equivalent to OE specifications. Its 90 years of history and ISO certifications have accounted for a guarantee rate of <0.05%. Our range of timing belt kits include the following:

• A timing belt that is resistant to changes in temperature, water and oil. Ensuring an optimized durability.
• Idlers made of high-quality raw materials and grease, to ensure the highest efficiency.
• A water pump (optional) manufactured with a silicon carbide seal, for maximum coating and functionality. 

If you are in need to replace a vehicle’s timing belt, regardless of being interested in the complimentary water pump or not, contact us or download our kits eCatalogue to know all about our full timing belt kits. These include all necessary components for an optimum timing belt replacement!

La entrada Expert advice: when should you carry out a car timing belt replacement se publicó primero en Industrias Dolz.

In the last few months Industrias Dolz have introduced 21 new to range references.

Industrias Dolz’s offer has evolved “from business strategy to transformation”. In the last few months we have introduced 21 new to range references, all of them available in both DOLZ and GGT brands and can be found in the main electronic catalogs such as TecDoc and Sofinn.

+9 Water pumps

New part numbers for water pumps suitable for: BMW, Mercedes-Benz, Jaguar, Land Rover and Scania.

• 3 mechanical water pumps:

DOLZ B262; L249 and M283.
GGT PA13351; PA13451 and PA13457.

• 1 electric water pump: DOLZ B263 / GGT PA13353.
• 4 variable water pumps:

DOLZ B268V; B269V; B270V and L250V.
GGT PA13479; PA13480; PA13481 and PA13474.

• 1 truck water pump: DOLZ E127 / GGT PA13265.

Based on the extensive knowledge of our experts, at Dolz we have developed a range that is characterized by its reliability, efficiency, and ease of assembly. More than 1,300 water pumps that guarantee the main European and Asian brands coverage and strengthen our leadership position in the market. Therefore, you can be confident that we will have the parts you need when you need them.

+7 Timing chain kits

New part numbers for Volkswagen Group, Nissan, Hyundai, KIA, BMW and Mini applications:

DOLZ SKCA021F; SKCA035; SKCN037; SKCH039; SKCH081; SKCB120; SKCA128V.
GGT KCSPA021F; KCSPA035; KCSPA037; KCSPA039; KCSPA120; KCSPA128V.

These kits include all the necessary parts required for a professional repair. In addition, the product testing and validation procedures guarantee an optimal installation since the first moment.

+4 Timing belt kits

New timing belt kits and auxiliary drive kits suitable for: Lada, Volkswagen and PSA Group.

• 1 timing belt kit with water pump: DOLZ KD140 / GGT KPA20140
• 2 timing belt kits without water pump: DOLZ SKD140 and SKD246 / GGT KSPA140 y KSPA246
• 2 auxiliary drive kits: DOLZ SKD204A and SKD250A / GGT KSPA204A and KSPA250A

Dolz Kits range is designed to provide the driver with the highest performance in any type of condition. Offering a range of auxiliary drive kits that already exceeds 40 PN’s.

Check out our latest part numbers! New to Range DOLZ-GGT

Why choose Dolz/GGT?

Once again at Dolz we combine the latest technology with coordinated planning and flexible production, which allows us to provide our customers with the best possible service and quality.

About us

Our experience of almost 90 years in the aftermarket sector allows us to offer innovative solutions and a competitive range of products that meet the highest quality standards.

With a global presence in more than 70 countries worldwide, Industrias Dolz has 3 manufacturing plants located in Spain (Castellon), Argentina (Buenos Aires) and China (Shouzou) and different commercial offices.

Take a look at our e-Catalog to discover the complete range of water pumps and distribution kits or contact us for personalized advice on any reference, commercial information or technical product specifications (including assembly notes). Contact by CLICKING HERE

Related content: Top 8 reasons to choose Dolz spare parts

La entrada DOLZ/GGT Product Lineup: +21 New to range references se publicó primero en Industrias Dolz.

Commonly, when a timing belt fails, all the other parts around it also require replacement. Because of this reason, it is better to change not only the belt but also other engine parts such as the water pump and tensioner. It means a better and long-lasting repair, prevention of engine risks and savings for the pocket.

Buying a timing belt kit has been proved to reduce 50% of interventions and an estimated 5 hours of labor. That is, one box solution that contains all of the components required for an optimal timing belt replacement. Continue reading and learn how to choose the best timing belt kits for your application.

Dolz Kits: What types of timing belt kits are there?

Timing belt kits with or without water pump

All-inclusive kits that contain everything you need for a professional repair: water pump with gasket when necessary, belt, pulleys, bearings and screws.

In order to cater the different needs of the market, timing belt kits are also available without a water pump.

Keep reading: 5 warning signs its time to replace the timing-belt

What criteria should you follow when choosing a distribution kit?

Ensuring that your vehicle has a strong and reliable engine is essential for safe and efficient driving. To achieve this, there are several key factors to consider when maintaining your vehicle’s engine. By taking care to address these critical aspects, you can help to extend the life of your engine and achieve optimal performance.

Compatibility and fit

Timing belt kit components must be compatible with your car engine. Timing belts can differ in strength, thickness and temperature resistance in relation to suiting specific vehicle needs. If you choose without checking compatibility, premature failure will potentially arise.

In order to do so, it is key to conduct research before selecting and ordering; by checking the part number and every specification that will ensure a proper fit in the engine. Accurate instructions also play an important role in securing an easy and safe installation of all parts involved.

Quality and guarantee

Do not jeopardize quality for price matters, as this will negatively affect durability; raising the costs associated with fixings and reparations in the long term. A reliable performance is a must so, the investment will surely be worth it.

Best timing belt kits are those whose quality is at least equivalent to OE standard specifications regarding fit, functionality and performance indicators. Timing belt components must be tested under the same conditions as per OE specifications, with proven materials guaranteeing superior resistance against heat, pressure and external wear.

Dolz’s facilities are fully ISO certified in all the countries where it operates. With a guarantee rate as low as <0.05%, quality of Dolz references rests assured.

Manufacturer experience

Reputation and expertise are the safest ways to verify product quality and reliability. It is rather important that the chosen brand has proven knowledge and experience in the manufacturing of the specific product, as each individual component has a unique functioning.

Existing reviews and additional support materials such as technical specifications, videos and unboxings can help you identify specifically how the item(s) should turn out. Only an experienced manufacturer can offer a backed-up product.

You must be interested: Timing belt kit replacement: how to do it?

Parts included on the timing belt kits

When it comes to maintaining the engine of your vehicle, few components are equally critical as the timing belt. To help ensure that your timing belt is functioning properly, it’s important to understand the various parts that are included in our timing belt kits:

Timing belt

It is in charge of keeping internal combustion engines running and the vehicle’s pistons and valves operating correctly. Premium quality belts must prove resistant to changes in temperature, water and oil to ensure optimized durability.

Water pump

The water pump is directly adjacent to the timing belt and is intended to keep the optimum temperature of the engine at all times, so it must remain properly sealed to avoid leakage. In most cases, the timing belt drives the water pump, which is why it is the right time to replace the water pump when replacing the timing belt.

Tensioners

A belt tensioner or idler pulley is the system that guides the timing belt on a car engine, keeping it tight and running smoothly. Its main function is to stop the belt from slipping, avoiding drivability issues derived from a loose timing belt.

Bearings and screws

Bearings and screws are what holds together and in place the different components of engine timing belt kits. Dolz bearings are equivalents to OE and resistant to temperature changes and motor vibrations. They are manufactured with high quality raw materials to reduce friction and wear.

Choose Dolz’s timing belt kits for superior engine performance

The best timing belt kits are those manufactured at a superior technological level. Dolz has made significant investments in technology and innovation to provide products of unique precision and quality that have gone through solid inspections during the process.

With two options available: all-include kits with water pump (KD) and an option without the water pump (SKD), both alternatives are manufactured to reach OE specifications and are guaranteed for 2 years from date of purchase or 80.000 km.

Search through our kits e-Catalogue by reference, model, version and brand or contact us for tailored advice on choosing your best option for timing belt replacement!

La entrada Buying guide: timing belt kits se publicó primero en Industrias Dolz.

As the car accessory belt becomes more relevant in engines today, the importance of understanding this component also grows. This is why we’ve compiled a brief guide on this common part found on cars, including the most frequently asked questions.

What Does The Accessory Belt Do?

Also commonly referred to as drive belt, the accessory belt is in charge of powering a series of components within a vehicle’s engine by applying friction to a system of pulleys. 

It’s thus able to transmit rotational energy from the crankshaft pulley to a series of accessories, thus effectively moving these components.

The accessories powered by the accessory belt include:

• Alternator
• Air conditioning compressor
• Power steering pump

In some cases, it also supplies power to the water pump. To ensure efficiency, an optimal working of all of them together must be achieved.

Where Is The Serpentine Belt Located?

The serpentine belt is attached to the crank pulley and winds its way through various parts of your engine block. Depending on the engine in each vehicle, the serpentine belt may be located at the front of the engine block, or it may be along one side.

Keep reading: Understanding timing belt components and how to maintain it

What Are Other Types Of Belts In A Engine?

Considering the definition given above, it’s important to understand that the accessory belt is not the only drive belt within an engine.

• • Alternator belt: related to the car battery.
  • Power steering belt: helps making steering easier.
  • Water pump belt: helps powering the water pump, in charge of circulate coolant from the radiator to the vehicle’s engine block to prevent overheating.
  • Air conditioning compressor belt: drives the AC compressor in charge of keeping low temperatures in the vehicle cabin. 

• Timing belt: It is a positive engagement device; it guarantees the engine’s crankshaft and camshaft work in sync. Depending on specific engine belt configurations, it can sometimes drive water pumps and oil pumps too. 

What Are The Benefits Of The Accessory Belt?

The incorporation of the accessory belt has been favored in recent years for its capacity to generate an integration in power transmission processes. Additionally, its efficiency can be improved when incorporating serpentine belt tensioners, which maintain correct tension and alignment, as well as avoiding slipping and vibrations.

In order to access all these benefits, it’s key for mechanical experts to approach the accessory belt as a key component that shouldn’t be underestimated. This includes the need for sustained maintenance checks, especially looking at the manufacturer’s recommended replacement timings. 

Below are the main benefits of auxiliary drive belts:

• • Belt drives consume less engine space as it’s only a single belt running.
  • The accessory belt allows more belt tension without stretching.
  • Easier maintenance.
  • Cost-effective. Fuel economy and available power are increased.
  • Using a belt drive eliminates the tendency of flip.

What Are The Symptoms Of A Faulty Car Accessory Belt?

Certain factors such as the general wear, high temperatures or vibrations can have an impact on the car accessory belt, translating into a need for replacement.

Here’s a brief look at the symptoms of wear in the accessory belt that can cause further damage to your vehicle.  

• Hardening of the power steering.
• Battery failures in the vehicle.
• Wear and loss in the ribs of the belt.
• Shiny or frayed appearance.
• A surface that presents signs of abrasion.
• A belt that has been contaminated with oil or coolant.
• Excessive slack.
• Misalignment on pulleys.
• Melting.
• Noise when operated, including squealing or screeching sounds, and frequent ticks during acceleration.

Drivers can experience some effects like the failure of the power steering, the alternator, also the water pump, and air conditioner. However, each type of accessory belt will present its own needs and symptoms of wear.

You may like: Diagnose Auxiliary Drive Belt: symptoms of wearing

Do you have more questions about this element or want to know more about how to choose the right auxiliary drive kit? We are here to help you. With our decades-long experience we guarantee the highest quality and mechanical efficiency, as well as compliance with the strictest quality standards. 

Get in touch with us if you’ve run into any of the following issues mentioned above and obtain personalized advice to choose the best option for replacements.

La entrada Accessory Belt: frequently asked questions se publicó primero en Industrias Dolz.