July 16, 2025
In the modern workshop, everything revolves around efficiency and reliability. Especially when it comes to engine maintenance, the distribution system plays a crucial role. Timing belts and chains are responsible for the perfect timing between the crankshaft and camshafts. And thus for a smoothly running engine. But not every part is created equal. Quality, availability and technical support make the difference between a quick repair and a recurring problem. In this article, we highlight why OE-level quality parts are indispensable and what the most common timing problems are and how to avoid them.
Modern engines are designed with tight tolerances and high performance expectations. That means every component must perform flawlessly, especially the timing system. Timing belts must be replaced at manufacturer prescribed intervals, while timing chains, while often more durable, can stretch or wear, over time. Regardless of the type, it is vital to use OE-quality timing parts. Inferior parts can fail prematurely, leading to poor performance or even complete engine failure.
Wilmink Engine Parts put the focus on complete timing solutions: belts or chains, combined with matching tensioners, guides, gears and seals. Replacing a single worn part is not recommended. If the surrounding parts are corroded, even a high-quality belt or chain will not last long. For garages, a complete OE-quality distribution kit guarantees durability and peace of mind.
With a catalog of more than one million engine parts, more than 100 years of industry experience and collaborations with more than 250 renowned brands, Wilmink Engine Parts offers one of the most comprehensive timing assortments on the market. Whether it's a timing belt for a popular Ford van, a complex chain system for a BMW or an agricultural application, Wilmink can supply the parts in most cases. Like the popular WG2294061 chain set with Tritan coating from iwis for various engines from Renault, Nissan and Mercedes, among others.
The depth of the Wilmink range is especially valuable for workshops and overhaul shops. From common modern engines to rare or imported models, the right part can often be found and delivered quickly. This helps garages minimize vehicle downtime and speed up repairs. All parts supplied by Wilmink meet or exceed OE standards and guarantee accurate fit, performance and longevity.
Wilmink's strength lies in trusted supplier relationships. Here is a sampling of four of their top brands in timing systems:
Dayco has been a leader in belt technology since the 1970s and remains a global leader in innovative timing belts. They supply OE belts to numerous auto manufacturers and bring that same quality to the aftermarket. Dayco's timing belt kits include the timing belt, tensioners, guides and the necessary fasteners. In addition, kits including the water pump are also available, providing a complete solution for timing belt replacement. Dayco products are known for their durability, low noise level and accurate fit. Partnering with Dayco means quick access to the latest OE belt solutions for modern engines.
INA, a Schaeffler Group brand, offers a comprehensive range of distribution components for both chain and belt systems. Their solutions are designed to meet the ever-increasing demands of modern engines and guarantee high performance and reliability. INA's timing belt kits include all the necessary parts for a complete repair, such as belts, tensioners and tensioner pulleys, allowing efficient maintenance and reducing the risk of premature failure. Timing chain kits are also tailored to specific engine applications and offer a complete kit. With a focus on OE quality and innovation, INA's products are a trusted choice for automotive professionals.
BGA (BG Automotive) is known for its extensive range of timing chain kits for more than 6,000 engine types with more than 450 part numbers. Each kit typically includes the chain, sprockets, guides, tensioners and seals. BGA's production is focused on the aftermarket and offers a good alternative to OE brands. They maintain competitive pricing with high availability. For garages, this means quick access to ready-made chain kits, reducing the time spent searching for individual parts.
A preferred supplier to many car manufacturers, iwis has built a reputation for exceptional chain quality. Their Tritan coating improves chain durability, reduces wear and resists corrosion. iwis chain kits often exceed OE specifications with certain kits coming with a 5-year/100,000-mile warranty. Wilmink offers a wide iwis range, especially useful for common problems in BMW, Mercedes and other diesel and gasoline engines with chain drives.
Some engines are known for specific timing system weaknesses, and Wilmink offers solutions to address them:
Early 1.2L and 1.4L TSI engines had problems with chains, leading to ignition errors and engine noise. The solution is to install higher quality chain kits, such as iwis' WG2293886 timing chain kit for 1.4/1.6 gasoline engines.
These turbo engines face problems around the oil pump chain. Replacement of both timing chain and oil pump chain is recommended. Wilmink stocks complete kits for this repair from brands including iwis. Such as the WG2293838, an oil pump drive kit.
This diesel engine uses a wet timing belt system, where the timing belt runs in the oil. Fuel contamination in the oil can cause the timing belt to deteriorate prematurely. Regular oil changes and timely timing belt replacement with OE kits, such as those from Dayco (WG2413465), prevent major engine damage.
These engines also use a wet belt and suffer from belt swelling and oil contamination. Inspection and replacement with a high-quality Dayco kit (WG2331990), plus crankcase cleaning and oil change, restore reliability.
For customers, access to Wilmink engine parts means more than just availability. It's about trust. Trust that every timing part you install is designed to last. With the right parts, tools and knowledge, parts last a long time. Wilmink offers the timing solution your workshop can count on.
