Timing Gear
In order for proper combustion to happen in an engine that will create usable power, the proper air, fuel, spark, and timing of all three are required. Responsible for keeping the crankshaft rotating in unison with the camshaft to make this happen is the timing gear, chain, or belt setup. The timing set incorporates a crankshaft and camshaft gear or sprocket. Connecting them is either a chain, belt, or idler gear set. Once the crankshaft and camshaft are rotated and "clocked" to be in the correct orientation during installation, the chain, belt, or idler gear holds them together in their position so that proper timing happens. While some engines only have one timing set option, others, like American V8s can have a timing chain, belt, or gear drive option to choose from. While chains are the original timing set type, belts are typically used in high performance racing applications. Gear drives are often used for those who like the "blower"/supercharger whine sound they emit from the meshing of the idler gears. Timing gear cars, with sets available in "quieter" and "noisy" versions can be heard by others and have a love/hate relationship with many enthusiasts.
When choosing a replacement timing gear for your vehicle's engine, first confirm the year, make, model, and engine size. Next, from the remaining compatible options available, select the timing gear that matches your application and budget. Often it is recommended to replace gears and chains/belts as a set as they wear together from use. However, in some cases replacement of only one timing gear may be necessary and acceptable. For custom and performance engines, confirm the year, make, and engine size. If the engine will be operated at over 7,000 rpms, a timing gear drive is not recommended due to the harmonics and resonance it creates. Instead a heavy duty timing chain or belt setup is recommended.
JEGS offers a large selection of timing gears from the best manufacturers in the automotive aftermarket including Cloyes, Melling, COMP Cams, Speedmaster, JEGS, and many others. Each timing gear set is built from high-quality components and assembly to provide long-lasting performance and the precise timing your engine needs.
