98 GS400- interference vs. non-interference
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Driver School Candidate
Joined: Dec 2008
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From: CA
98 GS400- interference vs. non-interference
My mechanic just informed me that the timing belt is broken. I know that this can be very costly. He will inform me of the damage later this week. Is the 1UZ-FE interference or non-interference? I've searched previous posts, but no one has a definite answer. I guess its best to say that I'm screwed either way.
Driver School Candidate
Joined: Nov 2007
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From: tn
based on this guide, you have an interference engine.
http://www.aamkatalog.ctapps.de/doc/...imingbelts.pdf
http://www.aamkatalog.ctapps.de/doc/...imingbelts.pdf
Lead Lap
Joined: Nov 2001
Posts: 705
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From: California
Unfortunately, I have to agree. The newer version of the 1UZ- has variable valve timing, which puts the piston closer to the valves for more power. This means that if the belt breaks, some pistons will contact the valves that are still open. It only takes a second to do it when the engine is turning.
Maybe you will get lucky and only have bent valves on only one head. If valves are bent on both sides, both heads will have to be removed, and all bent valves will have to be replaced, ground and lapped into place. The valves cost only $16.00 each (you have 32 valves), but the labor to remove and replace everything will cost the most.
How long has it been since the last timing belt was replaced? The reason I ask is becuase I have a hard-headed brother-in-law that has not replaced his belt in over 125,000 miles. He has a 99 LS400, and he just abuses it. He risks catastrophic failure. He knows it, but says that he will go awhile longer. He has 225,000 miles, and the last belt was done at 100,000 miles, and NO transmission fluid changes since 100,000. This is NOT the car to buy. It will be ready for the junkpile soon. He says that Lexus builds reliable cars, but not if you don't service it.
Good luck on your repair. Keep us posted on your success.
So sad.
Maybe you will get lucky and only have bent valves on only one head. If valves are bent on both sides, both heads will have to be removed, and all bent valves will have to be replaced, ground and lapped into place. The valves cost only $16.00 each (you have 32 valves), but the labor to remove and replace everything will cost the most.
How long has it been since the last timing belt was replaced? The reason I ask is becuase I have a hard-headed brother-in-law that has not replaced his belt in over 125,000 miles. He has a 99 LS400, and he just abuses it. He risks catastrophic failure. He knows it, but says that he will go awhile longer. He has 225,000 miles, and the last belt was done at 100,000 miles, and NO transmission fluid changes since 100,000. This is NOT the car to buy. It will be ready for the junkpile soon. He says that Lexus builds reliable cars, but not if you don't service it.
Good luck on your repair. Keep us posted on your success.
So sad.
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