Date: Thu, 13 May 2004 15:16:46 GMT From: "Matt O'Toole" <mattnospamanet.com> Subject: Re: Timing Belts (was Re: Cost of repair Audi BMW Saab...(crossposting))
eBob.com wrote: > That's interesting. Since all of the brands of cars which I have > owned have had them, I just assumed ... > > Anyway, how 'bout educating me on two things. Just exactly what do > timing belts do? (Yes, I am pretty dumb in this area.) And what do > the BMWs w/o timing belts have which perform that function? A timing belt drives the camshaft and valves, by taking power from the crankshaft. The other alternative is a chain and sprockets, which all newer US model BMWs have. A few cars like Ferraris have gear driven valvetrains. The only US model BMW engines with timing belts are the "small six" engines, which are in the 80s 3 Series, and some 5 series cars -- the 325e, 325i, 528e, and early 525i. The rare 524td is also a small six w/ a belt. Matt O.