Powersports Timing Pulleys & Belts

If your powersports vehicle is equipped with a four-stroke motor, it definitely has the valvetrain system to synchronize the crank and camshaft(s). If the motor features a SOHC or DOHC design, the cams are located in the cylinder head. In most all-terrain and utility task vehicles, these shafts are driven by a chain, however, some side-by-sides and even a few snowmobiles can be equipped with a timing belt. But whatever kind of drive your vehicle came from the factory with, this mechanism may require your attention over time.

Actually, belt replacement is a common servicing procedure whose interval is defined by the engine's manufacturer. However, technical progress never stands still, and timing belts get much stronger and more durable than ever. It may seem odd, but flexible belts don't tend to stretch, unlike timing chains which get longer over time thus affecting performance. Belts are generally considered not as durable as chains, but the difference is not that big. Many modern belts feature robust composite construction including such materials as oil-resistant rubber, specially treated fabric, polyurethane cogs and backing, carbon components, etc.

All these solutions make the timing belt a reliable part indeed, which can resist heat, high revs, chemicals, and so on. However, nothing lasts forever, and this component is no exception. It still gradually wears out and has to be replaced over time, along with timing pulleys. Like toothed belts, pulleys also have a cogged shape in order to maximize grip and avoid slipping, and their working surface, bearings, or bushings also have a limited service life. Not all of the belts and pulleys available on the market are equally good, so our in-house specialists study the existing offerings carefully and choose only those products whose quality is high enough and corresponds to modern industry standards.