Hello everyone, I did a search and still haven't gotten a definite answer on whether a '96 SC400 timing belt is interference or not. Mine has 110K miles and I need to know if I should get it replaced or wait a while. Thanks for the info.

 

DD and Sooner, please correct me if I'm wrong. The 96 SC400 have the dome type piston and it's considering interference engine. I know the 95 SC400 still used the 250hp engine from the 1st gen LS, but I'm not sure about the 96 SC400.
The easiest way is to open the hood and see if the engine covered all whole intake and you can't see the intake manifold at all, then it's new designed engine with dome type piston and 10 more hp. Lexus recommended to change the timing belt and water pump at 90K on this engine,but it's depending on personal preference too(as I've said before). It's just a preventative maintenance, the same thing you do the brake job before it's metal to metal.

 

96 is interference and its time to replace it

 

Dang! Looks like I'll be out about $600. Thanks, guys.

 

Why wait anyway? (it is an interferance I believe)
Your overdue regardless, and you "may" end up with a tow bill or worse

 

I was a parts/service manager for 10 years and have never observed the Gates chart to be wrong. Here is the link:

http://www.gates.com/downloads/downl...TOKEN=83555645

it says the only interference in the Lexus lineup through at least year 2000 is the LX 4.7liter v8.

 

i am sorry but your chart is wrong i have seen it before

 

Ok... now you have me concerned. Do you know this by first hand experience or from a Lexus shop manual?

 

1st hand experience

 

Out of curiosity... how much was the cylinder head overhaul on your engine?

I believe my 1997 LS has the same engine as the SC so the chart would be wrong on it also.

 

i fixed it not had mine done so i dont know how much the bill was