BorgWarner’s next-generation 6.35 mm inverted tooth silent engine timing chains are launching on engines from Mitsubishi, Suzuki, Hyundai, General Motors Korea and one Chinese automaker. The innovative engine timing chain is designed to reduce friction, resulting in as much as 0.3 to 0.6 percent improvement in fuel economy based on customer testing. BorgWarner will produce the new low-friction engine timing chains for a variety of 0.66- to 2.0-liter gasoline engines for vehicles in Japan, China and Korea.

“As automakers began downsizing engines to improve fuel economy, BorgWarner recognized opportunities to help further improve engine efficiency by reducing power-wasting friction in the engine timing system,” said Joe Fadool, president and general manager, BorgWarner Morse TEC. “With our state-of-the-art testing and simulation capabilities, BorgWarner has developed a new, smaller-pitch engine timing chain that reduces friction while delivering lower noise and improved durability for these tough engine environments.”

BorgWarner’s low-friction engine timing chain combines inverted tooth silent chain technology with an optimized link back shape. Compared with conventional technology, the optimized link back shape reduces contact area and friction as the chain slides along the arms and guides, where most friction losses occur. In addition, super finish apertures enhance wear and efficiency performance, and “E” polishing improves surface finish to reduce friction.