New RX owner
 

Just picked up this 01 RX300 Silversport edition today. Needs a lot of suspension work and leak repairs. But its in good shape and fluids are pretty clean. Has 134,000. Timing belt sticker at 101,000 and I suspect the trans fluid has been changed around then as it is red, but dark. Plan to fix all the leaks, change all the fluids and go back together with another new timing belt and water pump after changing the cam and crank seals. Spark plugs and throttle clean when I attack the rear valve cover leak.

I know the struts are bad, tires are chopped up, rear ones are leaking, and the whole ride is boaty/poor. Brakes pulsate, tires are out of balance. No play in tie rods, control arms or ball joints.

What are some common areas that need attention on these? I have a 98 GS300 and haven't been on this part of the forum. So wondering what areas I need to look more closely at. All interior controls work fine, but the rear electric antenna is broken off. No odd HVAC or A/C noises under the dash. Buying this car for my mom and I have 2 months to fix all it's issues before I take it to her in Oregon.

https://cimg5.ibsrv.net/gimg/www.clu...1782347d2f.png
https://cimg1.ibsrv.net/gimg/www.clu...ea1a6556d5.png
https://cimg0.ibsrv.net/gimg/www.clu...5c4f3a1e8e.png
https://cimg4.ibsrv.net/gimg/www.clu...fc1907edb1.png

As long as you're tackling a leaky valve cover, I would update the rear cover. It was challenging (for me, anyway!!) but doable.

That is a beautiful, clean car!!

Thanks I'll have to research what that it.

Nice car.
I'd change the transmission filter as well: there's 2 types so be sure to get the correct one.

Cheers,
Johan

I did notice there are two types. Any easy way to tell which one I need?

Enter your VIN number in one of the online partssellers and see what number they come up with.
Assuming you're in the US. Did not work for me because of Europe spec car; I use a Toyota Electronic Parts Catalogue.

Also one is strainer, other is filter type. Once remove you see which one you have.

Cheers,
Johan

And you will find this and much more info in the excellent RX300 DIY sticky thread

Thank you, I am looking into the valve cover update. I need to give my mother a car that is on point. I don't have time to see if it is an oil consumer or not. I guess this is a better safe than sorry situation, so I'd better update it if it's not already.

One question. Im sure its the same but, the only thing I need to clarify is that the valve cover gasket remains the same. ?

I found the rear cover, pcv valve for it, and tube. Just need to know the felpro kit I will be getting will still work with it.

Be sure to get the 3rd generation cover. I don't know the exact part number but it should be here somewhere.
Apparently 2nd generation cover can still be problematic.

Cheers,
Johan

https://www.ebay.com/itm/LEXUS-RX330...N/401685292568

Can anyone tell me if this would work? It looks like the Gen3, but its off an rx330

Here's what I found somewhere:


https://cimg4.ibsrv.net/gimg/www.clu...d81b4a728a.png

Most would be in this thread

https://www.clublexus.com/forums/rx-...lve-cover.html

Thank you! Thats very helpful to know what to look for