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Just did an inspection on my timing belt .
it’s a 2004 Lexus ls430. Don’t know the history on car. Should I replace it or what do y’all think of the condition?
Just did an inspection on my timing belt .
it’s a 2004 Lexus ls430. Don’t know the history on car. Should I replace it or what do y’all think of the condition?
How many miles does the car currently have..?
Taking a peek at the belt is certainly worth your time but it doesn't show the whole picture.
The belt itself is much stronger than most people realize. It's not a glass slipper and will not simply snap out of the blue.
When they do fail it's typically the result of another part, bearing or water pump, failing.
Have it and all the ancillary parts changed within the next 3 months or so...
Looks like it's been in use for a very long time. Nearly impossible to predict when a belt will break I've seen very high mileage (all highway driven) belts break even though it didn't look all that worn. It can only take so many bend cycles.
Agree on the above, often the idler or tensioner bearing seizes and takes the belt with it. Sometimes belt strands wrap around the cam gears to the point where it sheers the cam clean off.
How many miles does the car currently have..?
Taking a peek at the belt is certainly worth your time but it doesn't show the whole picture.
The belt itself is much stronger than most people realize. It's not a glass slipper and will not simply snap out of the blue.
When they do fail it's typically the result of another part, bearing or water pump, failing.
Have it and all the ancillary parts changed within the next 3 months or so...
I was looking at a water pump kit on rockauto
Aisin to be exact . Does that kit have all the parts you recommend that need to be changed ?
I was looking at a water pump kit on rockauto
Aisin to be exact . Does that kit have all the parts you recommend that need to be changed ?
Yes, well almost...
Don't forget a thermostat. Don't mess with aftermarket buy one from Toyota. Any local dealer will have one.
Upper and lower radiator hoses are also a good idea as they will come out during the TB service.
Most of us also use the opportunity to replace the radiator as well. They're not expensive and this will be the perfect time to do it.
Changed mine at 135k miles and looked as good as new one even bending backwards. You can't tell anything from looking at top of belt. What is mileage on car now. It's a 6 hour job for the DIY.
Changed mine at 135k miles and looked as good as new one even bending backwards. You can't tell anything from looking at top of belt. What is mileage on car now. It's a 6 hour job for the DIY.
It probably has been done once and maybe around the recommended 90k but if you are planning on keeping the car you might want to do it for peace of mind.
I've seen several of them and the one in your photo does not appear to be original.
Like everyone said, do it all. That means Aisin kit, water pump, bearings, tensioners, thermostat and radiator.
Like the OP said, I'd bet a bearing goes first. That is why I don't let the dealer do it. If you ask them to replace the belt, sometimes that is all they do. Take no short cuts and these motors will last a long time. I also do not replace the cam seals unless they are leaking. Dirt in the motor oil will get in the seal and cause it to go bad. I change the oil as required and use a really good grade of synthetic 5W-30. Keeps the dirt out.
Just had my independent mechanic do the whole service and if you are capable in doing this yourself it will be a clean starting point. The WP and thermostat are essential to be included.
