A BG Automotive (BGA) investigation has revealed that its aftermarket belts contain the same materials and are constructed in the same way as an OE belt.
Following extensive side by side real life simulation on bespoke machinery at BGA’s research and development center, experts have concluded that both BGA and OE belts contain 100 per cent hydrogenate nitrile butadiene rubber (HNBR), precisely wound aramid braided cord to generate exceptional tensile load resistance.
Both also feature a specialist tooth jacket to provide increased abrasion and heat resistance.
All belts from BGA’s production line are thoroughly tested for 41 days/984 hours on bespoke testing and measuring machines simulating a real-life driving experience equating to 63,960 miles.
Upon cycle finish, both OE and BGA belts were analysed and measured to have equal degradation.
Timing belts degrade over time and start drying and cracking as they are exposed to external elements.
However, if they are replaced at the intervals fixed by the manufacturers, it’s unlikely for a timing belt to fail prematurely.
A BGA spokesperson said: “Timing belt replacement intervals quoted by the manufacturer should be regarded as the maximum.
“Due to variations in vehicle usage and operating conditions the belt may need to be replaced earlier than specified.
“If there are any doubts as to the serviceability of the belt and its associated components, they should be replaced.”
BGA is an Automotive Aftermarket parts supplier with more than 90 years of OE manufacturing heritage as the aftermarket division of the largest privately owned OE supplier, 4BG Group, established in 1929.
BGA focuses on providing one of the largest ranges of high quality, competitively priced parts in the aftermarket containing auxiliary drive, camtrain, cooling, gaskets, lubrication, power steering, steering and suspension, timing belt kits, timing chain kits and transmission.