I have an Lexus 2003 ES-300. I am going to replace the timing belt. Does cyl. #1 have to be on TDC. I started to read the procedure but I do not know if it is necessary. If it is, how do I place cyl#1 on TDC. Thanks.
DrivewayAl

 

Here's a guide to changing the timing belt on a 03 Camry 1mz-fe engine. I don't know how well it matches up to your ES but it's a start. http://ww2.justanswer.com/uploads/jo..._003405_X0.pdf
Step 13 says to:
13. REMOVE TIMING BELT
(a) Set No. 1 cylinder to TDC/compression.
(1) Temporarily install the crankshaft pulley bolt and the
washer to the crankshaft.
(2) Turn the crankshaft clockwise, and align the timing
marks of the crankshaft timing pulley and the oil
pump body.
(3) Check that timing marks of the camshaft timing pulleys
and No. 3 timing belt cover are aligned.
If not, turn the crankshaft 1 revolution (360 degrees).