So I'm pretty sure the high-pitched, whining sound my engine gives when its cold is the timing belt. Can someone post directions on how to tighten or adjust the timing belt? I'm somewhat mechanically inclined but have never done this myself.

Peace,
Mac

 

I would think that you are hearing the serpentine accessory belt.

The timing belt is inside the cover and tough to hear.

If it is the timing belt....maybe you are best off changing it.

MW

 

Yeah, I've got 75K on the Lex already its probably about time to do that. How many belts should I get replaced? Timing, accessory, compressor? I don't know exactly how many are there.

Peace

 

Timing belt replacement is due at 90K. Squealing when cold is prolly serpentine belt (only one belt, it runs everything), growling/squalling when cold may be alt, waterpump, ps pump or belt tensioner bearings. All can be checked out and serviced when timing belt is replaced - also the time to flush cooling system and replace thermostat, do the waterpump too even if it's ok cuz it may fail before the next timing belt change and waterpump in&out is part of timing belt job, don't let the dealer charge you twice for labor if you have both jobs done at once...

 

Strongsail,
So you are saying to replace the waterpump also when getting the belts changed? Just want to be clear before getting any invasive surgery done on the engine.

Peace,
Mac

 

http://www.yotarepair.com/Engine.html

http://www.theautoshop.com/timing.html#LEXUS

 

there is no timing belt maintence

 

Maintenance=replacement

LEXUS Manufacturers' Recommended
Replacement Intervals For

3.OL - V6, 4.OL -V8


On 1993 & prior models, replace at 60,000-mile intervals; on 1994 & later models, manufacturer does not recommend a specific maintenance interval.

 

1. Open the belt cover. (In the process, you will have to remove a gazillion other parts on its way).
2. Look for the timing belt tensioner pulley.
3. Loosen the pulley.
4. Manually rotate the crank 360 degrees. This will self adjust the tension.
5. Tighten the screw of the pulley.
6. Put back the cover and the accessories.

I wouldn't bother doing the above early at this point because that's still a lot of work. You might want to try spraying the belt first with a belt dressing and see if the noise will disappear.

 

sharp.There is no timeing belt maintance.One does not maintain the belt.One replaces it.

 

Ow c'mon, we all know what people here mean.

I can argue also that it can be termed "maintenance" such that, by referring to proper maintenance of timing belt, maintenance in that respect means "it needs replacement every 90,000 miles". Part of the "maintainance" is by keeping a log book of "mileage in and mileage out" with respect to the belt installation/replacement.

Maintenance=replacement, no problem.

 

I know that!!!!! But it is refered to it as maintenance though.
Exactly what "whitels" just stated. Your maintaining the engine by replacing the belt so it's termed as timing belt maintenance!
Read the bottom and the headings on each. http://www.yotarepair.com/timingbelt.html