MASSMINI

I have a chatter / rattle noise coming from the timing belt area of my 2001 RX300. If I press on the upper belt cover the noise stops. At the upper edge of the cover there's a rubber gasket visible for about 4 inches and the cover doesn't seem to be sitting correctly. If I push on the cover right where the gasket is showing the noise stops. I can't tell whether is just making a better seal and trapping in the sound or if the pressure is actually stopping something inside from rattling. The belt was changed at 76K (before I bought it). Car now has 96K miles.

Any advice appreciated.

bearbrew

You may want to remove the cover and check for loose parts then replace the gasket. There is a possibility the cover is rattling from metal contact. Either way you need to replace or reposition the gasket for proper fitment.

frankdms

iTrader: (1)

x2. Good start. Better safe than sorry.

JohnLX300

iTrader: (2)

I am having this same problem. I have a 99 RX300, timing belt was replaced @ 89,000 and its at 101,000 now, and I am still having this issue now. I pulled the upper cover off. Still have the same sound.

MASSMINI

Does the upper cover come right off? Or are there other parts that have to come off first?

JohnLX300

iTrader: (2)

There are only 5 bolts holding the upper cover on. 3 that are easy access and the other two are a pain, and of coarse those are the ones in the rear of the vehicle.