So, what's the philosophy behind using a timing belt instead of timing chain?
08-08-2007, 05:20 AM
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So, what's the philosophy behind using a timing belt instead of timing chain?
A timing chain technically means NO replacement required... at least until the engine needs a major overhaul for worn valves (150+k miles?). With a timing belt, you have to change it much sooner... and as I've come to learn in the TT world, you really need to have it done at 60k miles for peace of mind. I take it the same thing holds true for the 2.0T engine?
08-08-2007, 05:37 AM
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Cost maybe?
There's probably a ton of parts that are used to save pennies but when added up it saves the buyer hundreds or even thousands.
Just my best unedjumacated guess, though.
Just my best unedjumacated guess, though.
08-08-2007, 06:24 AM
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NVH reduction too, but the bottom line is probably cost.
How many buyers would pay more for a chain? It would make sense for those like myself who put enough miles on a car to require multiple belt changes.
Nissan seems to prefer chains to belts. Their SR20D 2.0 liter has a chain, and it's found in some pretty cheap vehicles.
Nissan seems to prefer chains to belts. Their SR20D 2.0 liter has a chain, and it's found in some pretty cheap vehicles.
08-08-2007, 06:27 AM
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Chains need attention also, the tensioner is always the weak link...
But yea in general chains are more reliable and cheaper to run than belts...
As the other guys said I'd say that cost and noise are the reasons some use belts...
As the other guys said I'd say that cost and noise are the reasons some use belts...
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08-08-2007, 01:47 PM
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:-) I'm excited and VERY sad at the same time. As the purchase day nears,
I'm giving my TT long hard looks more and more... damned I love that car. I wish I could sell it to some older gentleman that would put like 3k miles on it per year, then allow me to buy it back from him in a couple of years. ;-)
But hey, the A3 is certainly tons of fun to drive and yes you're right--I'm definitely going to appreciate the utility of it. Got to get a roof rack system for cycling, skiing, kayaking, etc... :-D
But hey, the A3 is certainly tons of fun to drive and yes you're right--I'm definitely going to appreciate the utility of it. Got to get a roof rack system for cycling, skiing, kayaking, etc... :-D
08-08-2007, 02:03 PM
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I'm not so sure it's cost, as Nissan uses them in their engines, but
I think you guys have made some good points, particularly with the drivetrain/inertia loss and noise. My old Maxima had a rather noisy engine, although I did notice that later models ran more quietly. There could also be a factor of engine form factor--maybe a chain requires more space that VW/Audi would rather conserve on.
Anyway, if you keep your car for 100k miles, you only end up replacing the timing belt once. That's not too bad. Also, I think extended warranty covers it (although I wonder how hard it is to convince them to do it sooner than later).
Anyway, if you keep your car for 100k miles, you only end up replacing the timing belt once. That's not too bad. Also, I think extended warranty covers it (although I wonder how hard it is to convince them to do it sooner than later).
