Bent engine valves occur when their timing issues, usually related to a broken timing belt or chain, cause their contact with a piston.
The result can be bent or broken valves which impact engine performance negatively and need replacement – typically by disassembling the engine to access the cylinder head and valves.
But replacing these damaged ones requires disassembling the engine to access valves which requires precision in seating for proper engine functioning and engine seating ensuring smooth engine functionality. Regular timing belt/chain maintenance helps avoid these costly repairs related to bent valves.
In this tutorial we are discussing the pros and cons and the cost of fixing of engine valve bent issue in a comprehensive way, so come with us.
Symptoms of Bent Valve
A bent valve in an engine can cause a variety of symptoms, particularly in a car. Some common signs of a bent valve include:-
#Engine Misfires
Irregular or interrupted engine firing sequences can occur due to a bent valve, leading to misfires. This can result in a rough-running engine or shaking.
#Loss of Power
A bent valve affects the engine’s ability to intake air or expel exhaust gases properly, resulting in reduced power output. You might notice a significant loss of power during acceleration or uphill driving.
#Engine Noise
Unusual ticking or tapping sounds from the engine, especially during acceleration or at higher RPMs, can indicate a bent valve. This noise may be more pronounced near the valve cover.
#Check Engine Light
Depending on the severity of the issue, the engine control unit (ECU) might detect irregularities in the engine’s performance and trigger the check engine light.
#Hard Starting or Stalling
Difficulty starting the engine or stalling at idle or during acceleration can be caused by a bent valve’s impact on engine airflow and combustion.
#Poor Fuel Economy
Reduced engine efficiency caused by a bent valve can lead to increased fuel consumption.
What Are Engine Valves?
Engine valves are integral parts of an internal combustion engine’s complex systems, acting as gatekeepers of the combustion chamber and controlling the inflow and outflow of air or air-fuel mixture to and from it before combustion takes place.
After combustion has occurred, these valves regulate the release of exhaust gases from within. Engine valves, often constructed of tough steel or alloy materials, are carefully engineered to withstand extreme temperatures and pressures.
Working together with the camshaft, their opening/closing timing can be tuned perfectly with engine cycles for seamless performance. At the combustion chamber, intake valves facilitate the entry of air or air-fuel mixture onto the intake stroke; exhaust valves facilitate the expulsion of burned gases on the exhaust stroke.
Synchronized valve movements are key for efficient engine performance, ensuring optimal combustion process by controlling intake and exhaust actions, ultimately contributing to its power, efficiency, and overall performance.
What are Causes of an Engine Valve to Bend?
Several factors can contribute to engine valves bending, including are as follows:-
#Timing Belt or Chain Failure
If the timing belt or chain breaks or skips a tooth, it can throw off the engine’s timing, causing the valves to make contact with the pistons and bend.
#Over-Revving the Engine
Revving the engine excessively or downshifting at high RPMs can cause the valves to float, meaning they fail to close properly before the piston reaches the top of its stroke, resulting in contact and bending.
#Incorrect Valve Adjustment
#Foreign Object Ingestion
Debris, carbon deposits, or foreign objects entering the combustion chamber can prevent the valve from closing fully, leading to contact and potential bending upon piston movement.
#Hydraulic Lock
If liquid, like coolant or water, enters the combustion chamber due to a head gasket failure or other issues, the piston might encounter resistance while compressing the liquid, leading to valve damage
#Valve Train Issues
Problems within the valve train components, such as worn-out valve springs or faulty camshafts, can lead to irregular valve movement, causing contact with the piston and potential bending.
How to Figure out the Valves Are Bend
