The timing gear is a vital system responsible for controlling the flow of fuel, exhaust and air in the engine. However, nothing lasts forever. The timing gear in the Ford Transit, as in other cars with internal combustion engines, is subject to wear and tear during operation. To ensure that the engine functions properly and to prevent potential faults, it is necessary to replace the timing chain or belt as well as other timing components after a certain period of time or after a set number of kilometres. From this text you will find out how often to replace the valve train on Ford Transits with different engines.
Ford Transit 1991 - 2000 - timing gear interval
Petrol engines: 1991 to 2000
- Ford Transit 2.0 66/72 kW - 90,000 Km or a maximum of 5 years.
- Ford Transit 2.0 84 kW (timing chain): check and replace if necessary after 10 years.
Transit MK4, MK5 diesel engines
- Ford Transit 2.5D: 80 000 km or a maximum of 5 years.
- Ford Transit 2.5TD 80 000 km or a maximum of 5 years.
Timing belts in the Ford Transit 1991-2000
There were three different timing belts in the Ford Transit MK4 and MK5:
- up to 1992: 25.4 mm wide, teeth 2.5 mm high
- from 1992 to 09/1997: 25.4 mm wide, teeth height 3.5 mm
- from 09/1997: 28.0 mm wide
All the belts listed have 130 teeth (protuberances). Interestingly, the 25.4 mm wide belt can also be used on the Ford Transit from 1997 onwards. However, the timing belt with high teeth is not suitable for earlier production vehicles.
When changing the timing belt, it is also worth replacing the tensioner pulley. Also pay attention to the water pump and the shaft simmering - whether there is any leakage.
Timing belt replacement interval - Transit MK6 and MK7 (2000-2013)
- Ford Transit 2.3 RWD (timing chain): check and replace if necessary after 10 years..
- Ford Transit 2.0 DI/TDCi (timing chain): check and replace if necessary after 10 years..
- Ford Transit 2.2 TDCi (timing chain): check and replace if necessary after 10 years..
- Ford Transit 2.4 DI/TDCi (timing chain): check and replace if necessary after 10 years..
- Ford Transit 3.2 TDCi (timing chain): check and replace if necessary after 10 years..
Ford Transits with timing chain were characterised by their long service life. It was possible to drive them for 250,00km with peace of mind, and we have had customers who have driven 500,000km without replacing the timing chain. However, the passage of time should not be forgotten. If the timing has not been replaced for many years (or never) then it is worth taking an interest in this subject for the sake of your van.
How often do you replace the timing belt on a 2014 Ford Transit?
At the start of production, the Ford Transit MK8 was available with 2.2 TDCI engines. As in the previous model version, there was a chain valve train. Thus, replacement of the timing gear was recommended after 10 years. Among our customers, however, there are some who have only replaced the timing gear after 600,000 km. Changes came in 2016 with the new generation of EcoBlue engines.
2.0 TDCI EcoBlue engine - how often should the timing belt be replaced?
The manufacturer recommends replacing the timing belt in the 2.0 TDCI engine after 240,000 km. However, our customers experience shows that it is better to replace the timing gear every 180,000 kilometres driven.
Ford Transit Connect 1.8 TDCI - recommended replacement of the timing gear
The manufacturer recommends replacement after 200,000 km of mileage or after 10 years.
Replacing the timing belt - recommendations
- When replacing the timing belt, also check the condition of the belt tensioner and consider replacing this component as well.
- Vehicles with chain drive timing systems have a longer service life and engine durability.
- Do not igonorise the characteristic noise that the timing gear makes to signal high wear.
- Buy timing components from our online shop to ensure they are of good quality.
Damaged timing gear in a van - symptoms
The timing gear can fail mechanically in a sudden manner, requiring the vehicle to be stopped and taken to a mechanic for further damage. Sometimes the driver may notice certain signals that suggest the need to replace the timing belt, or the entire system.
Chain drive timing
- Check Engine light coming on: Indicates a problem with the timing gear, often related to chain stretch.
- Noisy timing gear: Disturbing sounds from around the engine.
- Friction of the chain against the housing: Results from excessive wear or stretching.
- Uneven running of the engine.
- Starting problem: Difficulty starting the engine.
- Rumble from under the bonnet: a characteristic sound indicating wear and tear.
- Ignition interruption: irregular engine running.
- Oil leakage: from the front of the drive unit, near the valve train.
Belt timing
- No early warnings: the belt may break without any previous symptoms.
- Engine Compression Problems After Breakdown: Immediate loss of engine performance.
- Engine running rough when starting: indicates initial belt wear.
- Jerk when turning off the engine: may indicate belt wear.
- Visual inspection of the belt: missing teeth on the belt visible after removing the cover.
Remember that complete timing belts gear sets for Ford Transit, as well as individual parts, are available in our online store.
