A timing belt and water pump kit is a set of components for servicing the valvetrain. It includes all drive elements which should be replaced regularly. It helps to get it back in working order quickly.

Types

A timing belt and water pump kit can contain different components, as the drive design differs depending on the vehicle model. First, they differ by quantity, type and sizes of rollers, drive belt cross-section, and water pump type. The latter have a similar design, but differ in production materials and efficiency.

The pumps can be made of cast iron or aluminium. The impellers can be metal or plastic. Metallic ones are characterised by durability and longevity. However, they have higher inertia, and so more force is required to start the pump. Plastic ones are lightweight and reliable, but inferior in terms of mechanical strength. In addition, their impeller blades can deform under constant influence of high temperature, which generally affects the efficiency of the unit.

Operating tips

Before installing a timing belt and water pump kit,it is advisable to flush the cooling system, otherwise contaminants will scratch the new components. For this procedure you can use a standard hose and a flushing fluid or a special toolkit.

To make sure a timing belt and water pump kit has a long service life, it’s important to replace the coolant on time and use only products recommended by your vehicle manufacturer.

When installing the pump, sealing paste should only be used if doing this is approved by the carmaker. It is important to prevent the product from getting into the cooling system, otherwise this can quickly lead to the thermostat breaking down.

Once installation is complete, lift the car and turn the pump by hand about 10 times. This will allow it to fill it up with coolant and avoid dry running of the unit, which is dangerous for seals and other elements.

Use special tools for mounting the rollers. Monitor the level of coolant in the system and proper tensioning of the timing belt.

Symptoms of defects

Unusual sounds from under the bonnet during engine operation often indicate malfunctioning of one of the elements included in a timing belt and water pump kit. Screeching, noise, and knocking can indicate breakdown of the tensioner or idler rollers, while whistling or rustling can point to wear-out of the belt. A wailing sound indicates malfunction of the pump bearing. Malfunctions of the timing mechanism often result in engine malfunctions, such as jerky operation or a reduction in power. Sometimes the engine won’t even start. Traces of coolant on the pump casing or other units under the bonnet can be the result of a leak in a sealing ring or the housing.

Causes of defects

Often, breakdown of parts included in a timing belt and water pump kit is caused by failure to follow the installation recommendations. For instance, use of inappropriate tools can lead to damage to and misalignment of the pulleys, which in turn causes increased wear of the belt, and destruction of the bearing and the pump shaft. At the same time, an over-tightened belt often causes destruction of the bearings in the pulleys and the pump, as well as the pump shaft.

There are also other problems that can affect the pump. Coolant that is poor quality or not  replaced on time can cause corrosion. There is also a risk of cavitation due to the deterioration of old fluid.

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