2cam

Greetings! I'm new to Club Lexus but have had several Lexus SUVs (2 LX470s and a GX470) in the family for several years. Great machines!

I'm looking at a nice '98 SC400 locally that's in great condition, but hasn't had its timing belt service performed. At 140K miles, it's time! I've searched the forum and Google to determine what a typical timing belt service would run on a SC400, but haven't been able to find a recent answer - most of the posts were dating back over 5 years.

Does anyone on the forum have recent experience with the cost of a Tbelt replacement (including waterpump and other related "while you're in there" items)? Our LXs/GX are straight-forward and easy. I'm just concerned that the tighter engine compartment of the SC might complicate the job and make it more expensive.

Thanks!

2cam

- V -

iTrader: (1)

It really all depends on where you take it. My mechanic did it for $300 labor and the the parts were from Gates which cost me about $150. Did timing belt, waterpump, tensioner, idler and crank seal. This was about 2 months ago. If you do the cam seal on this engine you are going to have a very hard time because of the way its built. Usually they dont leak but if they do you will most likely need to take it to the dealer as they have special equipment to replace the seal. Though im sure there are other shops out there that can do it too. But yea its all about the mechanic.

O. L. T.

iTrader: (17)

It's about $1,000 to do at a dealer or lexus specialty shop, and your engine is a VVTI version of the SC400 which is an interference engine so you can't afford for it to break the belt. My favorite part of the sc4 is the non interference engine and I don't think the slight increase in HP is worth the destruction of the engine upon failure of the belt. If 98 is what you want, this car sounds like it is going to cost you both now, and down the road worrying about the timing belt in a few more years again. Not my cup of tea. 20 year old SC with no proper service = money pit.

O. L. T.

iTrader: (17)

Ps- I didn't find the timing belt to be a major ordeal when i did mine as long as that is all you're doing and perhaps the crank seal while you're in there - which just pops out and back in like butter. If you can DIY, it'll be cheaper than a visit to sams club to stock your fridge