Horsepwr

Ok ,I have the fun task of replacing the timing belt and water pump .Going to be replacing the starter also .Are there any brands out there that I should really stay away from when speaking of these items ?Does the timing belt REALLY need to be a Toyota belt ?Same with the water pump ,and starter .I called Lexus today ,and they must thing Im some executive at AIG ,that got a larger sum of money .PLEASE HELP !!Are gates belts any good ?

LiCelsior

iTrader: (32)

get the parts from our dealer vendors on the forum. they give a nice discount and use OEM parts. i used a ebay brand starter for my car, works fine.

python

iTrader: (4)

i wouldnt use anything but a denso starter...period, too much is involved in getting the starter in and out, also i hope u replaced your knock sensors and connectors

PureDrifter

iTrader: (10)

carson toyota aka L-tunedparts.com for all your OEM parts needs
and yes, buy genuine, you won't regret it.

EUBT

Everything I use is oem. Like the guys said, if you check around you can find prices that are more reasonable than the stealer's. Stay with oem, especially if it's buried like the tb and starter. Even the simple stuff can give you headaches. Like getting aftermarket plugs, bulbs, filters, etc. With oem you also get the bonus of knowing that your part is not a piece of crap from china.

GRAND_LS 4

iTrader: (2)

You can find sellers on Ebay that will rebuild your start (or sell you a rebuilt starter) using OEM denso parts. Starters can be had for anywhere between $100-$150 rebuilt with OEM parts.

Like many have mentioned before me, there are areas where you dont want to gamble, or save money.

Horsepwr

Thanks for all the responses guys .Looks like Ill try to stick with oem stuff .Does anyone know if when doing the timing belt / water pump ,are the cam seals very acessible ,should they be done also ?

PK_Celsior

iTrader: (18)

i believe they are accessible while the valve cover is off also :x but dont quote me on that. but i did remember seeing it while i was redoing my valve cover

good picture of it

PureDrifter

iTrader: (10)

on the 98-00 with the VVTi motors it's a whole lot more work to do the cam seals as you have to remove the camshafts.

Horsepwr

Ok ,I more than likley will not replace them then .Besides ,it's not leaking any oil at this point .Im sorry for the battery of questions ,but does it make sence to do the starter at the same time as the timing belt ?My buddy is actually doing the timing belt for me ,and I was thinking of replacing out the starter at the same time ,since I believe it is on it's way out .Thanks again

PK_Celsior

iTrader: (18)

the start goes on a different pathway. to do the starter you take off the intake manifold and all that good stuff. might as well do the whole valve cover camshaft seal.