The Workshop MB: Ferrari

Eurotalian Auto

Service & Performance Center

If your Ferrari was built since 1974, it is likely equipped with timing belts to operate the engine’s valves. Ferrari has issued specific instructions regarding the periodic replacement of these belts to avoid engine damage. This is because Ferrari engines are “interference engines”, meaning that if the valves were to become “out-of-time” due to a drive belt failure, insufficient clearance exists between the open valves and the pistons to avoid mechanical contact. In simple terms, this means that if a timing belt fails, the pistons will strike the valves, bending them and also inflicting damage to the piston crowns.

To avoid this possibility, the periodic replacement of these belts is strongly recommended. Initially, published replacement intervals were based solely on mileage. Later, these recommendations were revised to include a time interval as well. This change was the result of incidences where belts had failed on vehicles with minimal mileage, but significant age. A Ferrari is typically used for pleasure driving and not daily transport. Consequently, infrequent use introduces an age issue with the belts. As belts age, dry-out, or become subjected to oil leaks, their performance is compromised. As stated earlier, should a belt fail due to these problems, severe engine damage will result.
The typical failure mode of a timing belt is sheared “teeth”, which then cause the associated camshafts to become incorrectly timed.

This means valves are open at the wrong time, when a piston is reaching the top of its travel. Ultimately the pistons strike the open valves bending them. Repair to the engine at this stage involves replacement of the valves, and possibly valve guides and pistons. The belt failure event is extremely quick during engine operation, and therefore no corrective action such as stopping the engine can be performed in time to prevent the damage. Furthermore, the compromised belt “teeth” are usually impossible to detect during preventative maintenance inspections. As a result, the recommendation to periodically replace timing belts is used.

In addition to the timing belt issue, a Ferrari like any other car should undergo a routine maintenance program. However unlike other cars, a Ferrari is an ultra high-performance vehicle and its typical use may include track events or “spirited” driving. In either case, all components and systems should be at peak performance. Brake fluid is an excellent example, as it deteriorates with age and can lead to “fade” or loss of braking efficiency if not replaced on a regular basis. In addition, old brake fluid is corrosive and can lead to damage within the brake calipers and metal lines of the system if not regularly replaced. As parts for a Ferrari are rather expensive, routine maintenance is an effective alternative to replacement of expensive or difficult to obtain components.

Ferrari Owner’s Manuals contain an excellent chart to indicate what services need to be performed and at what intervals. Owner’s should familiarize themselves with these charts and follow the Factory’s recommendations religiously to ensure their Ferrari is always at peak performance and to ensure a

long service life for all components.

Scheduled Maintenance Recommendations & Intervals for Ferrari

Text Box: 15,000 Mile Service: Change gearbox & differential fluids Check cylinder head nut torque Adjust valve clearances Accessory drive belts inspected & adjusted Engine oil & filter(s) changed Camshaft timing belt(s) inspected, or replace at 3-5 years Replace air filter Inspect ignition system wires, rotors, caps, plug extenders Inspect brake system pipes, calipers, hoses, pads, rotors Inspect brake and clutch fluid reservoirs and levels Inspect suspension arms and bushings Inspect drive shafts and steering rack boots Inspect and clean battery terminals and connectionsInspect / service air conditioning system Check suspension geometry Lubricate door, boot, bonnet, engine lid hinges and locks / cables Check headlamp aiming

Text Box: 30,000 Mile Service: Change gearbox & differential fluids Check cylinder head nut torque Adjust valve clearances Replace accessory drive belts Engine oil & filter(s) changed Camshaft timing belt(s) inspected, or replaced at 3-5 years Replace air filter Inspect fuel injection system lines and connections Replace fuel filter(s) Inspect & test ignition system wires, rotors, caps, plug extenders Replace spark plugs Inspect brake system pipes, calipers, hoses, pads, rotors Inspect brake and clutch fluid reservoirs and levels Inspect suspension arms and bushings Inspect drive shafts and steering rack boots Inspect and clean battery terminals and connections Inspect / service air conditioning system Inspect starter motor and alternator as well as connections Check suspension geometry Lubricate door, boot, bonnet, engine lid hinges and locks / cables Check headlamp aiming

Text Box: Annual: Flush brake system and replace fluid Engine oil & filter(s) changed

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