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Valued at more than $10B in 2023, there’s no quieting the thriving timing chain market. Research suggests it will expand another $5B by 2031, which is staggering compared to other categories. This growth is driven by a demand for engine advancements. OEMs are utilizing timing chains instead of belts thanks to their durability and need for less intervention. And motorists are keeping vehicles longer and becoming more aware of preventative maintenance.

While it can be contingent on driving conditions, such as stop and go, towing heavy loads and regular maintenance service, most vehicles typically need timing chain replacement between 128,000 kilometers and 195,000 kilometers.

To keep pace with trends, Dayco continues to make considerable investments in its timing chain kit offering. “We have been expanding our line of OE-quality aftermarket kits and have coverage now for almost 120 million vehicles on the road,” said Jerry Reeves, head of product management at Dayco. “As more vehicles hit the sweet spot of needing time chain repair, there is a great opportunity in the aftermarket for today’s jobbers to tap into.”

Take Advantage of Kits

Nearly every timing chain job requires more than just the chain – so as a best practice it’s recommended that surrounding components be replaced as well, which is why kits are an ideal option. They include all necessary items for a complete installation. For instance, Dayco kits come with the primary and secondary timing chains, crank sprockets and cam sprockets, tensioners, guides, seals, and VVT solenoids and cam phasers if the application calls for it. But not only do kits make installation easier, there are a number of other benefits:   

• Kits reduce the risk of error and avoid issues caused by a partial repair​.
  
• The parts in a kit are matched and designed to work together, which in turn improves vehicle performance.

• Kits are easier to inventory, stock and ship for both the part seller and the shop – reducing the number of SKUS and shelf space.​

• Buying everything packaged together saves money vs. buying standalone components.

Selling Best Practices

When working with your shop customers, it’s a great idea to remind them of the value of using a kit. In addition, it could be beneficial to provide helpful information you have access to through the manufacturer such as installation details, videos or torque specifications. Also verify the kit is for the correct vehicle and ensure they don’t need anything else for the repair.

Here’s a list of helpful questions to ask garages to confirm they have everything needed for a timing chain repair:

• What is the VIN or engine code​? This allows you to match it against the kit’s part number.
• What components are being replaced? You might realize they also need VVT parts or an oil pump chain as well.
• Does this job require special tools or torque specs?​ Almost every timing chain repair needs a unique tool.  
• Are there other related components needed? For example, a water pump and hoses might need to be replaced, or if the vehicle comes with an ela belt, it also should get changed.

Check out one of the latest timing chain kit replacement videos on a 2.5L/2.7L Toyota engine. Watch the video here.

Why Dayco Kits are Different:

Dayco’s line of premium OE-quality timing chain kits cover all high-volume light-duty engine applications and include all the necessary components for a thorough and complete repair, such as chains that prevent stretch for the life of the vehicle and precision-engineered sprockets. They also feature:

• An industry-best warranty – Dayco kits are backed by an industry-leading two year or 100,000 kilometer parts and labor warranty, whichever occurs first, giving technicians confidence in what they’re installing. No other aftermarket company is offering this extensive of a parts and labor money-back guarantee. Complete warranty details can be found here.  
• Instructions on the box – All packaging features a QR code that links directly to detailed installation information.
• Training support – Dayco continues to build out a library of videos to help ensure the installation process goes smoothly for technicians tackling these jobs.

For more information on Dayco’s timing chain kits or to access their installation videos, click here.