SKF Timing Belt Kits - SKF.com

Frequently asked questions
Q: Tensioners and idler pulleys
sometimes look the same.
Can I interchange?
A: You should only fit part numbers
specifically shown for that
application. Automotive engines
each have their own particular
performance characteristics,
which means that tensioner
and pulleys are designed and
tested specifically for each new
motor. The exterior appearance
of the bearing unit may hide
internal changes that have taken
place to meet the change in
engine specification, i.e., grease
performance, bearing clearance,
tolerances, tensioner spring
strength.
Q: Can I refit an old timing belt?
A: NO. Used belts should not
be refitted and used. The original
belt has already been in use
at its optimized tension, so
the properties of the belt have
changed compared with a new
belt.
Q: The tensioner is showing
external corrosion but is rotating
freely. Is it okay?
A: Change it. If the belt is being
changed, then it is possible this
unit will need to be functioning
on the car for another 60,000
mi/96 560 km. Don’t take the
risk: internal condition and
bearing life cannot be seen.
Q: How often should a complete
timing belt and tensioner change
be carried out?
A: Most car manufacturers including
NISSAN, FORD, HONDA, and
CHEVROLET specify complete
repairs to their models during a
specified service period. Outside
this period the system should be
checked for damage. Or if
you are in doubt about the
condition of components, you
should recommend a complete
change to your customer.
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Q: There are many brands
of timing belt kits available.
Why should I use SKF?
A: SKF was the first company
to launch this concept, and since
then has continued to use its OE
manufacturing experience to lead
the market with OE approved
components in SKF branded
boxes.
Q: What’s the main benefit
to our repair shop for using
timing belt kits?
A: You will be more efficient, having
the necessary components in one
box. You will also have the ability
to promote a professional image
to your customers in terms of
quality of work and service. The
end result is higher customer
satisfaction and a stronger
business.
Specific removal and installation
instructions by make, model and
year included in each kit.
Q: Can I buy the tensioner
or pulleys on their own?
A: Sometimes you will only be
required by the customer to
change the pulley or tensioner,
so for flexibility we offer an
extensive range for our customers.
Q: What is the difference
between a timing belt kit
and a multi-V belt kit?
A: The timing belt kit is used
on timing system in which
the crankshaft drives the
camshaft(s) and actuates
the valves via a timing belt.
The multi-V belt kit is used
on auxiliary drives in which
the crankshaft drives auxiliary
components such as the
alternator, air conditioning
compressor, power steering
pump etc., via a multi-V belt.
Q: What is a belt tensioner unit?
A: The belt tensioner unit sets the
right belt tension and provides
guidance for the belt.
Q: What is the difference
between a BTU and an
Automatic BTU?
A: The adjustment of tension during
mounting is achieved by means
of an eccentric or by means of a
spring acting against a contact
pad on the bracket.
Q: What is an idler pulley?
A: The idler pulley is fixed and
allows the belt to be correctly
wound around the driven
components.
Q: How can I check the belt
tensioner?
A: A belt tension testing device that
ensures proper tension of the belt
after mounting should be used.
Q: What are the main causes
of belt damage?
A: Too high or too low tension,
vibrations, high temperature and
belt misalignment.
Q: Why is it recommended to
also change belt tensioner
and pulleys when the belt is
repaired?
A: The main source of the belt’s
damage has most definitely
affected the other rotating
components of the timing
and auxiliary systems, like the
BTU, Automatic BTU and idler
pulley. To allow a complete and
safe repair for the engine, SKF
recommends changing the belt
and the belt tensioner pulleys at
the same time.