Timing chain wear investigation methods: Review

Abstract

Several methods are used for investigating timing chain wear, from fired engine dynamometer tests through tribological model tests to simulations. Research over the past decade has shown that component or tribometer tests can replace expensive engine dynamometer tests in many cases. Simulation methods can further reduce the cost and time of development. Simulation models require experimentally defined input parameters; therefore, experiment-based methods cannot be completely avoided. However, a comprehensive comparison or validation of the various experimental and simulation techniques is difficult, as the literature on the topic is relatively scarce. This study aims to give a systematic comparison of the results of several investigation methods of timing chain wear, supported by data measured at Széchenyi István University, such as fired engine dynamometer tests, cold dynamometer tests, component tests, and tribometer tests, presenting their benefits and limitations, where possible through examples and results. The study also provides an insight into the compatibility of different measurement methods.