| What works underneath an Audi's hood generates a | | | | Audi's timing chain has custom teeth to turn the |
| steady stream of horsepower. It's no secret though, | | | | camshaft in synchrony with the crankshaft. In some |
| that this is possible because of a tested engine | | | | engine designs, the timing chain may also be used to |
| system composed of intricate parts. To understand | | | | drive other engine components such as the water |
| this mechanism, a little 101 on two of the many | | | | pump and oil pump. |
| components can be of good help. | | | | The tie rod. An Audi is hooked up with a |
| A timing chain. The Audi Timing Chain is a part of an | | | | rack-and-pinion gear set enclosed in a metal tube, with |
| internal combustion engine that controls the timing of | | | | each end of the rack protruding from the tube. The |
| the engine's valves. Usually, "timing belt" is also used to | | | | Audi Tie Rod connects the two ends of the rack. The |
| refer to any flat belt with integral teeth. The Audi | | | | pinion gear is attached to the steering shaft. When one |
| Timing Chain also serves the power transmission or | | | | turns the steering wheel, the gear spins, moving the |
| interchanges rotary motion and linear motion, where | | | | rack. The Audi Tie Rod, straddling each end of the |
| either high loads or maintaining a specific drive ratio are | | | | rack, connects the steering arm to the spindle. |
| important. A timing chain is also used for | | | | These are just two of the components that contribute |
| non-automotive applications, such as in linear positioning | | | | to an easier Audi driving performance. Aside from |
| systems. It connects the crankshaft to the camshaft, | | | | ensuring smooth engine operation, they also enable |
| which in turn, manipulates the engine valves to open | | | | dependable handling. Though these critical components |
| and close. In a four-stroke engine, valves are required | | | | are all made from highly durable materials, they need |
| to open and close once every other crankshaft turn. | | | | constant check up and maintenance. |