Development of a timing chain cam drive with a pre-loaded automatic tensioner

Timing belts or chains are commonly used in automotive engines to transmit crankshaft rotation to the camshaft and accessories. The chain drive is prone to wear due to the extreme operating conditions, resulting in elongation of the timing chain, which affects engine performance. As a result, a tensioner unit is used to maintain constant tension and has been shown to improve chain life. The steel spring material is enclosed in a tensioner arm and is pre-loaded, assembled on the driving side of the timing chain cam drive, which could account for chain elongation compensation automatically up to a certain limit, eliminating the need for a separate tensioner unit, resulting in reduced equipment size and cost. Timing Chain Cam Drive, Design & Analysis are keywords.