Water pump is actually more durable than the timing belt.

If you could get a thin and long piece of wire you might be able to stick it CAREFULLY inside through the oil cap to feel inside to see if you have sludge in there (upper cylinder).

 

Ok, so here's the deal...
I went ahead and got a price from Lexus to replace the Tbelt/water pump, belts, thermostat and flush and replace coolant...$997 + tax, and they have a 20% of coupon. Not too shaby.

So my dilemma continues...as some of you know I'm a bit concerned about not only the "potential" trans issues, but "potential" sludge issues as well.
So I removed the oil cap from the engine..and noticed quite a bit of caked up oil directly beneath the cap..to the point where you can actually scrape it off with your finger. Took pics if anyone wants to see..

Is this a potential sign of sludge?
When you remove your oil cap, what does it look like in there.

I'm a little concerned

 

99RX,just curious,how far are you from Chester Springs Pa.I got a quote from Lexus of Chester Springs for the timing belt,(just belt replacement) for 561.00 w/labor and rental car.As for the sludge,like mentioned before on here,you really need to pull your valve cover off,to really see anything.If your not using any oil between oil changes,try running either auto rx,or a can of seafoam through the engine.Then switch to synthetic motor oil.Also change out all of your drive tran, fluids with synthetic.

 

Not sure exactly how far from you...the name and info from the dealer are
http://www.tricountylexus.com/ in little falls NJ...also check the special section and you'll see the 20% off coupon.


Anyone else care to chime in on the undercap gook?

 

According to mapquest...chester springs to little falls nj.. 125miles....might be worth the trip...

 

Well,125 miles is kinda far.Figure thats about 2.0 hours,and that`s making tracks,(not letting any grass grow under you) With traffic,2.5-3.0 hours.