Which component is responsible for the timing of the engine’s valves?

The camshaft is the component responsible for the timing of the engine’s valves. It controls the opening and closing of the intake and exhaust valves in sync with the position of the piston. The camshaft is equipped with lobes that push against these valves at precise intervals, allowing for proper airflow into the engine and exhaust flow out of it. This timing is crucial for optimal engine performance, as it directly affects the engine's efficiency, power output, and emissions.

In comparison, the piston moves up and down within the cylinder and is involved in compressing the air-fuel mixture and performing the power stroke, but it does not control the timing of the valves. The crankshaft transforms the linear motion of the pistons into rotational motion and maintains the timing of the piston movement relative to the camshaft, but it does not regulate valve operation directly. The flywheel serves to maintain the momentum of the engine and smooth out power delivery but has no role in valve timing.