Valued at more than $10B in 2023, there’s no quieting the thriving timing chain market. Research suggests it will expand another $5B by 2031, which is staggering compared to other categories. This growth is driven by a demand for engine advancements. OEMs are utilizing timing chains instead of belts thanks to their durability and need for less intervention. Concurrent to that, consumers are keeping vehicles longer and becoming more aware of preventative maintenance.

To keep pace with trends, Dayco continues to make considerable investments in its timing chain kit offering. “We are regularly expanding our line of precision-engineered aftermarket kits and have coverage for almost 200 million vehicles on the road,” said Jerry Reeves, Head of Product Management at Dayco, who added that the company is launching 60 part numbers this year alone.

“As more vehicles hit the sweet spot of needing time chain repair, there is a great opportunity in the aftermarket for proper inspection and replacement.” Reeves explains that during routine inspections, there are two red flags technicians should be looking for:

No. 1 – Noise
Noise coming from the front of the engine, especially upon warm up, is an indication that the timing chain guides and tensioners are worn past the service life. Reeves, who is a former technician, recommends inspecting the engine, reviewing the oil change schedule, and also performing a quick compression and leak down test to determine engine integrity before timing chain repair.  

No. 2 – Chain Stretch
A system experiencing chain stretch will usually trigger a PCM code. Before recommending a timing chain replacement, Reeves says to repair the codes, and verify that cam/crank sensors as well as VVT solenoids are functioning properly. After that’s complete, it is safe to proceed with timing chain system replacement. “Our team has seen timing chains replaced only to find poor connections or non-functioning sensors as the actual cause of the PCM code,” explains Reeves.

Prepping for the Installation

Nearly every timing chain job requires special tools that some garages don’t have so prepare ahead of time. In addition, use a kit like those offered by Dayco. They save time, cost less than buying individual components, and include all necessary items for a complete installation, said Reeves, who explains why Dayco kits are different than competitive products: 

• Industry-best warranty – Dayco kits are backed with a two year or 60,000 mile parts and labour warranty.
• Instructions on the box – All packaging features a QR code that links directly to detailed installation information. Be meticulous in following instructions as some steps need to occur in a specific order.
• Premium, reliable components – Dayco kits include top-grade timing chains that prevent stretch, precision-machined crank sprockets and cam sprockets with flawless fit, tensioners, high-grade plastic guides, seals and VVT solenoids and cam phasers if the application calls for it.
• Training support – Reeves, who is part of the Dayco tech team, says they continue to build out a library of videos to help ensure the installation process goes smoothly for technicians tackling these jobs. 

For more information on Dayco’s timing chain kits or to access their library of installation videos, click here.