How hard is it to change out the 2 drive belts on the rx? (the one for the alternator, a/c, etc and the other one which im not sure what it drives). I only ask cause i would consider possibly tackling this myself as both belts currently have cracks in them and need to be changed before they snap which would be bad news.

 

The other one drives the power steering pump.

 

How hard is it to change these out though for a Diy person

 

I am a below average DIYer, but I did complete the knock sensor replacement. Anyway, I had to replace my alternator about a year ago. I got the alternator in, but could not get the adjustment bolt back in (it broke when I was trying to remove it so I had to replace it.

I ended up having a pro do it. I was told that "you pretty much needed to be left handed to replace that bolt".

I believe had that bolt not broken it would have been no problem, but that is not how it turned out.

I have not attempted the PS belt.

 

This job is outside the scope of things that you will do.

 

How did you determine this and more important is how does Matt determine his skills?

Skill, dexterity, understanding, practice, tools space etc all play a part. Having a belt tension gauge would ensure the job is done right.

2 hrs to let the engine cool down and 1/2 hr labor is not a bad deal.

Salim

 

It has been years since my belts were replaced by a moonlighting Lexus mechanic.

As I recall. there is an access panel by the right front wheel well. Also, the mechanic used a long socket wrench extension, after removing the plastic cover by the top of the radiator (not what I had expected).

I hope that helps.

 

+1, seriously, just take it to your shop and add it to the list. a 5 sec youtube vid search will show the level of difficulty you will encounter.

 

Accessing PS pump fasteners is very difficult. I had to modify a box wrench. If you do not have enough garage space to change oil and/or you do not like getting dirty, you not want to tackle this job.

 

Well; despite everything; I am leaving it to the "shop" to do tomorrow where I am going to have the belts done; as well as a few other things that need attention.