FAI premium chain kits – time for a change?
FAI was one of the first to market with an ‘all makes’ Timing Chain kit programme; offering a high-quality alternative to the costly components offered by manufacturers.
With over a decade of experience in R&D and production, the well-known aftermarket brand has topped 500 kits in its range, including an industry-leading selection of VVT applications.
The demand for chain drive components has seen a sharp increase over the past few years with more OEMs favouring chains over belts; especially from 2000 onwards. A trend that FAI recognised early on and set about creating an initial product launch focused on the most common failures; data which was based on decades of industry knowledge.
FAI VVT hubs and Control Valves are manufactured in a clean room environment on a Tier 1, multi-million-pound production line. Quality is checked at every process of manufacture and following a function test, components are laser marked ready to be released for supply.
Maintenance free?
Due to the narrowing tolerances found in modern engines, the importance of a quality repair solution is imperative. Coupled with this is the maintenance of the surrounding components, which also plays a vital role in the longevity of the engine. The timing chain system is still treated as a fit-for-life part and as a result, manufacturers don’t release a service programme as they do for belt drives.
Vehicle service intervals have crept up in recent years which has increased the mileage between oil changes considerably; a continuing trend that has left some vehicles running for 18,000 miles or more with potentially contaminated, damaging oil.
It’s inevitable that over time, debris and fuel contamination will find its way into the oil reservoir and therefore causing degradation. This deterioration of the oil can quickly lead to irreparable damage to a whole host of components including the lubrication of the chain, which due to the high operating loads is the most common point of failure.
The oil acts as the lifeblood of the engine which is why FAI promotes the importance of adhering to regular oil changes, in a bid to prevent engine fatigue. Just 5 per cent of fuel ingress, metallic particles exceeding 100ppm (parts per million) or silicon greater than 15ppm, creates a hostile environment; no longer providing adequate lubrication, actively promoting wear within the engine.
To avoid costly reinstallations, FAI suggests these commonly overlooked tips be covered.
Torque settings – It’s vital that the manufacturers’ torque settings are followed, and air tools not used. Incorrect settings can lead to sprockets slipping which could cause piston to valve contact.
Specialist tools – Always ensure you have the correct tools for the job, especially when the requirements differ between manufacturers. A good example is the PTFE seals found in many VAG and BMW engines which require a special installation tool to be correctly fitted.
Decontamination – Ensure that all contaminants are removed from the lubrication system, including the oil pick-up pipe, galleries and feed holes. Removal and inspection of the sump pan and oil pump is also advisable for a comprehensive repair, free of contamination.
Correct oil grade – Lubrication is the key to a long-lasting repair, as previously mentioned. Many garages carry a stock oil however, the exact grade recommended by the engine manufacturer should be used. This practice will ensure an optimum operating environment, avoiding premature engine failure.
FAI do Sump Pans
Whilst you’re working on repairing the timing gear it’s likely you’ll need to move the sump. FAI suggests that this is a good point to inspect the sump for corrosion and damage.
FAI stocks a range of over 50 sumps, incorporating both steel & aluminium depending on OE design. Quality is assured by each sump pan being leak and pressure tested within the production process. To make life easier, FAI even supplies sump plugs and accompanying sealant or gasket. For further details please visit faiauto.com Telephone: +44 (0)1525 351800
