Timing Drive Systems

Tsubakimoto Chain invests significant resources into the development of automotive parts such as timing chains and other parts. We supply a range of products to meet the needs of next-generation high-performance engines and environmentally friendly engines such as high performance, low noise, and light weight.

Timing chains. Tsubakimoto Chain holds a 68% share of the Japanese market and a 33% share of the world market. We have shifted to the development of more compact products in response to the growing demand for compact cars.

Overview of Timing Drive Systems

Timing drive systems power engine camshafts, and are generally either chain drive or belt drive systems. The shift from belts to chains has been accelerating in recent years with higher performance and more compact engines.

Chain drive systems employ roller chains or silent chains, each of the chain types having different performance characteristics in terms of durability, noise, and compactness.

As a system supplier, Tsubakimoto Chain provides timing drive systems to meet the needs of all types of engines. We are the world’s only chain maker to provide the full spectrum of drive systems, from chain drives (roller chains and silent chains) to belt drives.

TIMING CHAIN

Roller Chains

Driving camshafts and enabling precise valve timing, roller chains play a central role in timing chain drive systems, which are indispensable components of engines. Tsubaki’s roller chains combine all of the performance characteristics that automakers demand, including strength, durability, low noise, and lightness.

Silent Chains

Tsubaki’s silent chains are the fruit of efforts to further lower noise while maintaining rollerchain characteristics. Also, Tsubaki has realized even more compact timing chain drive systems by introducing an ultra-small, 6.35mm-pitch silent chain.

Sprockets

In timing chain drive systems, sprockets mesh with chains to transmit rotations accurately to camshafts. Tsubaki’s metallurgical technologies and heat treatment processes enhance the wear lives of sprockets. Also, we produce sprockets that are compatible with silent chains – a process once regarded as problematic. What’s more, we have made timing chain drive systems even quieter by improving the shape of the sprocket teeth.

Tensioners

Tensioners make a significant contribution to noise reduction by counteracting chain vibration and elongation in all operational conditions. Tsubaki’s tensioners deliver the low noise and reliability that automakers need by combining oil hydraulic and mechanical technologies to suit each engine’s specifications. Moreover, our tensioners are specially designed to mitigate excessive chain tension.

Levers and Guides

Levers and guides perform a vital role in mitigating chain vibration and ensuring accurate valve timing. Our breakthroughs in materials and molding technologies are allowing us to manufacture lighter, lower-friction levers and guides.