What's the difference between belt-driven and chain-driven cam shafts?

Please could you explain what differences there are between belt driven and chain driven cam shafts? Is one more fuel efficient, less noisy, more reliable and costly than the other? What makes one engine need belt cam and another need chain cam from the design stage?

Asked on 23 June 2010 by leeothelion

Answered by Honest John

Manufacturers moved to belts for OHC operation because they are cheaper and quieter. But belts, pulleys, tensioners all wear out, so many are now moving back to new types of silent chain.

Tags: chain cam specification belt cam

Similar questions

Do Ford Focus diesels (1.6 and 2-litre) have cam belts or chains?

Is the VAG 1.2 TSI 85/105bhp engine chain or belt cam drive?

What are the pros and cons of the Ford Focus chain-cam 100ps and 1.6 belt-cam 115ps engines?

I am about to buy a 2007 1.6 Focus Estate. Could you please advise me on the pros and cons of the 1.6 chain-cam 100ps and the 1.6 belt-cam 115ps engines?