Two into one will go -says FAI Automotive

As engine design gets ever more complex, with smaller and more economical units developed to increase power, efficiency and lower emissions, you could be forgiven for thinking that some jobs are too complex for the aftermarket and will remain in the domain of the franchised garages.

Think again! Take the diesel engines fitted in six BMW models, including 1, 3 and 5 series and diesel versions of the Mini. They have not one, but two timing chain kits fitted. Why? Because reliability and performance is enhanced by splitting the length of what would be one chain in most engines into two, which reduces the load exerted on each chain by reducing the number of components in the drive line.

FAI Timing Chain Kits are available for both the upper chain – TCK 133, which is responsible for timing, and the lower chain – TCK 134, which handles the injection pump. But since the chain kits are located at the rear of the engine, which has to be removed to facilitate a repair, it is false economy not to change both chains and all of the associated component parts at the same time.

With two Timing Chain Kits in one engine, you need someone to make it simple…and FAI says it has done just that, with the introduction of a new kit, the TCK 133C, which includes all of the necessary parts to change both chains, as well as the crankshaft and camshaft sprockets plus the oil pump chain.

Chains are stronger and have better wear characteristics than belts and so their use is becoming increasingly common in new vehicles. They offer a longer service life as they are mounted inside the engine and benefit from good lubrication, whether pressurised, or through atmospheric oil broadcast over the chain and drive components, which reduces friction.