The consequences of a failed toothed drive component, responsible for synchronizing the rotation of the crankshaft and camshaft(s) in an internal combustion engine, range from inconvenient to catastrophic. A malfunction of this critical element often leads to a cessation of the engine’s operation, leaving the vehicle immobile. In many engine designs, a failure results in internal damage due to the pistons colliding with open valves.
The importance of this component’s integrity cannot be overstated. It ensures the precise coordination between the upper and lower portions of the engine. A compromised or broken unit disrupts this coordination, frequently precipitating significant engine damage. Historically, regular inspection and timely replacement of this component have been proven to mitigate the risk of consequential and expensive repairs.