Schnitz

iTrader: (5)

Which is more important when the determining whether the timing belt needs to be replaced - age or mileage? I'm looking at a 2000 LS400 with 60k miles and the timing belt hasn't been replaced yet.

Schnitz

iTrader: (5)

I actually found the answer here: http://us.lexusownersclub.com/forums...howtopic=48275

jjsoni1

I was thinking the same thing when I purchased my vehicle around Sept. of last year. Mine is a 98 with 23K then, and 25K now. Got the car from the son of an older gentleman who passed away. Had my mechanic inspect the belts, and he said it would be money in the trash. I have heard the horror stories of what happens if the belt were to break while driving, so I will probably get it done by the end of the year. Good Luck!

Schnitz

iTrader: (5)

I had mine replaced anyways. Mechanic said it looked fine but at that point might as well replace it if it's being accessed anyways.

RAINBOW

I almost bought a 98 LS400 that had over 200k with orig. belt and a local Dr. has an SC400 with 250K+ that's on the orig. belt.I have an Outback that was done at 120K and the orig. belt looked great. 10 yrs. or 100k would be a safe rule. IMHO

Matador

Mileage and age are both factors. If you're purchasing a vehicle with about avg mileage for its age and its at the 90k hump, then you should obviously change it. If you're buying a vehicle that should be at the 90k hump but is significantly lower, you should consider changing it anyways. The belts are rubber and the elements/age do take their toll.

virtue22

I have a 1993 LS with 118K on the original belt. I think I am going to push it until 125K and replace everything I can at once (T-Belt, Ignition components, pwr steering pump, valve cover seals, etc.) I would like to change everything before my 2500 mile road trip in three weeks, but don't think I will have the time. Wish me LUCK.

PureDrifter

iTrader: (10)

you'll be fine, even if yours does break and you're stranded somewhere, you have a non-interference motor and can basically just put a new belt on it and the car will be fine.

virtue22

Thats just what I needed to give me a bit more confidence in my trip. There is nothing wrong with the car and I feel completely confident that nothing will happen, but you can never tell with something that is 16 years old. If it were interference I would change it tomorrow. I have heard that if the belt breaks it could take a bunch of stuff (I think I was told some ignition components) out with it? Has anyone heard of this or seen it?

Any one experience a T-belt break at all?

PureDrifter

iTrader: (10)

maybe if it gets stuck on a pulley/cam and starts spinning around hacking bits of wiring apart. but otherwise you'd be fine.