If you have ever been stuck on the side of the road with a broken belt or hose, you understand how important these two vehicle components are for the smooth operation of your vehicle. Belts play a role in supplying power to vehicle systems and hoses carry vital fluids throughout your vehicle. Without these two components, many vehicle systems would not function. In this blog, we consider the purpose of the belts and hoses, and how to keep them performing their job for your vehicle.
Types of Vehicle Belts
Inside your vehicle engine, you will find the belts that are responsible for providing power to other vehicle systems and accessories. These flexible rubber bands wind around the engine and are adjusted for the proper tension to provide consistent motion.
Common belts include:
- The Timing Belt: The timing belt works with the engine to provide the proper synchronization of the pistons as they move up and down in the internal combustion process. Typically, this belt is made of rubber, but some vehicles may have a metal timing chain in place of the timing belt.
- The Serpentine Belt: The serpentine belt is a longer vehicle belt that winds through the engine and supplies power through its movement to pumps, fans, and the air conditioning compressor.
While the vehicle is operating, the belts are working. These sturdy rubber belts are subject to continuous motion, friction, and heat in the engine. Wear and tear is a primary cause of belt failure, as they can crack, tear, break, or become loosened. When a belt fails, it will impact the operation of your vehicle and various accessories.
Types of Vehicle Hoses
The hoses in your vehicle are designed to bring vital fluids to and from engine components.
Common hoses include:
- Radiator Hose: Coolant passes between the radiator and engine with the help of the radiator hose.
- Brake Hose: Brake fluid is transported from the brake lines to the calipers through the brake hose.
- Air Intake Hose: Your engine requires a mixture of air and fuel to support the internal combustion process. The air intake hose brings oxygen to your engine to assist with the combustion.
- Heater Core Hose: When you use your climate control system to warm the interior cabin, the heater core hose uses heated coolant to create warm air for you and your occupants.
Because the hoses may carry hot fluids, they are designed to withstand high temperatures. These flexible rubber tubes can be subjected to wear and tear from the extremes, and this may cause the hoses to crack, break, or loosen from their connections.
Keeping Belts and Hoses Maintained
Belts and hoses are made to be strong but can deteriorate prematurely from ongoing wear and tear. To keep them maintained, you should:
- Occasionally inspect the hoses and belts for damage or failure. Look for cracks, bulges, tears, or loose connections. Listen for unusual sounds while the vehicle is in operation.
- Stay on track by keeping vehicle fluids topped off and/or replaced. If you maintain the fluids in your primary vehicle systems, this can help with the longevity of your belts and hoses.
If you would like your belts and hoses inspected for problems, contact the service professionals at Colonial Service Station to schedule an appointment.