Which Transit Connect has a wet belt?
The Ford Transit Connect van is available in several configurations, and the specific model with a wet belt is the Transit Connect Cargo Van. The wet belt refers to the timing belt that is submerged in engine oil, providing improved lubrication and longer service life compared to a traditional dry timing belt.
Understanding the Transit Connect Lineup
The Ford Transit Connect is a compact commercial van that comes in two main variants: the Cargo Van and the Passenger Van. The Cargo Van is designed for hauling goods and equipment, while the Passenger Van is optimized for transporting people.
Within the Cargo Van lineup, there are several engine and drivetrain options, including a 2.0-liter gasoline engine and a 1.5-liter EcoBlue diesel engine. The diesel engine is the one that features the wet belt design, which helps to extend the service life of this critical engine component.
Benefits of the Wet Belt Design
- Improved Lubrication: The timing belt is submerged in engine oil, providing constant lubrication and reducing wear and tear.
- Longer Service Life: The wet belt design can extend the recommended replacement interval for the timing belt, reducing maintenance costs over the life of the vehicle.
- Enhanced Reliability: By minimizing the risk of timing belt failure, the wet belt design helps to improve the overall reliability and durability of the Transit Connect's diesel engine.
The wet belt design is a unique feature of the Transit Connect Cargo Van with the 1.5-liter EcoBlue diesel engine, helping to set this model apart from the competition and providing added value for commercial customers who prioritize low maintenance costs and high uptime.
Why do transits have wet belts?
The Ford Transit vans use a wet timing belt system, wherein the belt is immersed in engine oil. This setup is intended to reduce friction and lower temperatures, thus extending the life of the belt.
What year does Transit Connect have a wet belt?
2016
The wet belt system is primarily found in the 1.5L and 2.0L EcoBlue diesel engines used in Transit and Transit Custom models manufactured after 2016.
Which engines have wet belts?
Citroen, Ford, Honda and Peugeot are among the brands that have fitted wet timing belts to some of their cars. Because the rubber belt is in constant contact with the oil, it can cause the belt to degrade more quickly, especially if the wrong type of oil is used.
Which Ford engines have a wet belt replacement?
Ford engines that use a wet belt system include many EcoBoost and EcoBlue engines, such as the 1.0L EcoBoost, 1.5L EcoBoost, 2.0L EcoBlue Diesel found in models like the Fiesta, Focus, and Transit. Additionally, some later versions of the 2.7L and 5.0L V8 engines in F-150 trucks use a wet belt for the oil pump.
Common Ford wet belt engines
- 1.0L EcoBoost: Commonly found in the Fiesta, Focus, and Transit.
- 1.5L EcoBoost: Used in models like the Focus, Kuga, and Mondeo.
- 2.0L EcoBlue Diesel: Featured in the Transit, Kuga, and Mondeo.
- 1.5L EcoBlue Diesel: Found in the Transit Connect.
- 2.7L EcoBoost: Some 2018+ models use a wet belt for the oil pump.
- 5.0L V8: Some 2021+ F-150 models use a wet belt for the oil pump (but not the Mustang).
Why some engines have wet belts
- Reduced friction and wear: The oil-immersed belt has less friction than a dry belt, which can extend its life.
- Quieter operation: Wet belts are generally quieter, contributing to a smoother engine sound.
- Improved fuel efficiency: Lower friction can lead to better fuel economy.
Important notes
- Failure risk: While intended to last, these belts can fail prematurely, often shedding material into the oil system and causing major engine damage.
- Service intervals: Ford's official replacement interval is often 150,000 miles or 10 years, but many sources recommend replacement much sooner, around 80,000–100,000 miles, to prevent failure.
- Verification: To be certain if your specific engine has a wet belt, it is best to consult your owner's manual or a qualified mechanic.
