Analysis of information sources in references of the Wikipedia article "Timing belt (camshaft)" in English language version.
In earlier engines, camshafts were often gear-driven off the crankshaft. Later, powerplant designers developed chain drives in OHV (overhead valve) configurations that allowed some flexibility in the placement of the camshaft so that shorter pushrods could be used, for more performance and efficiency. Those engines with long chains sometimes tended to whip about and cause problems. The only alternative was a noisy and complicated multi-gear train until the cogged rubber synchronous timing belt was invented in 1945. Today the timing belt cam drive is used in distinguished automobiles such as Ferrari, Mercedes, Cadillac, Corvette, BMW, Alfa Romeo, Porsche, etc.
Example of an Audi belt that broke before the recommended replacement interval.
In earlier engines, camshafts were often gear-driven off the crankshaft. Later, powerplant designers developed chain drives in OHV (overhead valve) configurations that allowed some flexibility in the placement of the camshaft so that shorter pushrods could be used, for more performance and efficiency. Those engines with long chains sometimes tended to whip about and cause problems. The only alternative was a noisy and complicated multi-gear train until the cogged rubber synchronous timing belt was invented in 1945. Today the timing belt cam drive is used in distinguished automobiles such as Ferrari, Mercedes, Cadillac, Corvette, BMW, Alfa Romeo, Porsche, etc.
Example of an Audi belt that broke before the recommended replacement interval.
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