Engine components and drive systems supplier Dayco was the original pioneer of the belt-in-oil (BIO) concept for OE applications and has now introduced a range of BIO belts and kits to cater for growing aftermarket demand especially for original Ford applications.

As Ford’s power transmission supply partner, Dayco designed the world’s first BIO drive system in 2007, when it developed the engineering solution to supersede the previous chain driven high pressure injection pump for the popular ‘Lynx’ engine used on the Focus, C-Max, S-Max, Mondeo, Galaxy, Tourneo Connect and Transit Connect. Since its successful introduction, BIO technology has now been incorporated into several engines from other vehicle manufacturers including PSA and VAG, as well as additional Ford engines, such as the 1.0-litre EcoBoost unit.

BIO technology has brought in a true revolution in synchronous transmission systems because developing a solution that enables a drive belt to work inside the confines of the engine has meant that the best of belt and chain technologies have been brought together. Benefits include the ability reduce the weight of the transmission system and therefore reduce its inertia, which combined with the lower friction properties of a flexible belt, delivers the twin environmental benefits of lower fuel consumption and reduced emissions. The technology also produces noticeably lower noise levels than a comparable chain driven system.

The belt is just one element within the system that also includes mechanical transmission components, such as special tensioners with specifically developed bearings and innovative damping systems able to generate the friction needed in the presence of lubricating oil.

Dayco remains the only manufacturer that supplies BIO belts for OE primary drive transmission systems alongside those original fuel, oil and water pump applications.

The time since the introduction of this technology, plus wider use, means that demand for replacement BIO components is now on the rise. To meet this demand Dayco Aftermarket has introduced a range of BIO belts and kits. Also as the primary drive system on the Lynx engine is driven from the injection pump, the performance of the injection pump drive system is crucial, which has lead Dayco to developed a complete replacement ‘cartridge’ that entirely substitutes the chain driven system with the BIO system that superseded it. In addition to the belt itself, the cartridge also includes the corresponding belt pulleys to enable workshops to update the engine and remove and replace the chain driven sprockets.

For more information regarding power transmission products in the Dayco range, please visit: www.dayco.com