rmkblades

Here is the video.. Let me know. Thanks!
Engine sound

Mesquite77

Maybe this: https://www.clublexus.com/forums/rx-...f-the-day.html

Felix

Yes, your 3mz sounds normal. The 3mz is a fairly quiet engine vs the 2gr. It does use a t/b driven to the exhaust cams which are driven by gears to the intake cams vs a chain. The 3mz does have solid lifters vs hydraulic lifters that the 2gr has. The 2gr uses 3 t/c's, roller rockers & has a mechical engine noise at idle vs the 3mz. When was the last time the t/b was changed?

rmkblades

Forgive my ignorance.. But what is a t/b? Is it a timing belt? I think it has been a while if it is that.

mafogle

It sounds to me like there is more valve lifter noise than I would consider normal - that high pitch clickety clack rattle sound - based on experience with three vehicles with similar engines ('96 ES 300, '99 ES 300, and '06 RX400h).

As Felix pointed out the 3MZ-FE has solid lifters, so over time the gap between the lifter and the cam can grow.

Lexus recommends inspecting the valve clearance every 60K miles, first listening to the engine for valve/lifter noise and rough idle, and then if needed measure the lifter gap and replace the shim as necessary.

It's a good idea to keep the lifter gap adjusted to spec. - that rattle is the cam hitting the lifter, and the impact will increase wear - and wear will change the valve opening causing rough idle, poor performance, and poor fuel economy.

As Felix asked, how long has it been since the last major service? If the timing belt hasn't been replaced within 90K mi, you could combine that with the valve clearance and save some money - maybe new plugs and PCV while your at it.

Felix

t/b= timing belt......fyi there are varies timing belt kits that include the belt, w/p (water pump), tensioner, idler pulleys, v/c gasket, I'd also do the cam seals as well......