tvd51

My LS is 91 model with 235,000 km (147,000 miles). It has two noise-related problems:

- A clunking noise when the car starts up, immediately after the engine engages. The dealer said the drive belt tensioner needs to be replaced (Can $650). The noise is louder when it's cold.

- A humming noise when the car is accelarated. The dealer said the EGR pipe is cracked (another Can $650). I don't buy this diagnostic.

Anyone knows about these problems? Thanks.

One more thing: Should I use Slick50 (or similar product) on this car? I've used it successfully on 90 Stanza.

tvd51

1994 LS400

Hey ~
Give these 2 sites a shot
www.auto-rx.com AND www.bobistheoilguy.com
I have Auto-RX in my leaking baby and waiting to see if Auto-RX can fix her, but it helps lifters and valves (noises) bob's site is FULL of all the Auto-Rx users including mine (94 LS).
Hope This Helps,
Paul

mlevk

At $455 US for a Drive Belt Tensioner seems very high ,
and as well as for a EGR pipe. I would try a INDEPENDENT
TOYOTA Mechanic as these 2 items are fairly simple to
replace.

Lexus is charging you a PREMIUM , if not gouging a little.

tvd51

I think I know why there's a humming noise when the car acceralated: too much oil. I changed the oil the first time in Feb. with 5.3 liters of oil (5W30) as the manual said, but I had to drain some out later. I changed the oil again last week (10W30), this time I put in only 4 liters and the dipstick showed it full. Assuming the manual is correct, there're only two explanations: something wrong with the dipstick, or the oil cannot be drained completely. Anyway, the humming noise is gone (almost) and I'm happy.
tvd51