Question for 1MZ owners

[Falcon_LS]

I'm replacing the timing belt on an '02 ES300, along with the tensioner, cam seals and water pump with a whole lot of other maintenance.

Went to purchase my list of parts, and the parts guy at the dealer has me confused. He kept saying I need to purchase 2 auto tensioners, but I can only see one in the service diagram (part number 13540-20030). Can somebody who's tackled this job before confirm as to whether or not what I'm being told is true? This'll be the first time I open the timing cover on a 1MZ-FE. Thanks!

 

[KeithG]

You are right. There is one tensioner, but two idler pulleys. The tensioner presses on the No. 1 (lower) pulley.

 

[KeithG]

BTW, have you seen this?

http://www.toyotanation.com/forum/showthread.php?t=160972&highlight=1MZ+timing

 

[Falcon_LS]

Many thanks, Keith!

That link is especially helpful, thanks!

 

[flanso]

It sounds like you are getting parts from Lexus/Toyota. Buying the OE belt is desirable because it has three marks already on it; no cumbersome tooth counting. My only delay came before I realized there are actually two marks on the crank sprocket, one for tdc and one for the belt alignment. The great link from KeithG points that out. Initially, I had trouble tensioning the power steering belt on my 2001 ES300; there's not much room. I put a stout snap ring pliers in the adjustment slot, squeezed to get the desired tension and then snugged the bolt. Good luck with your project.

 

[ocrstar]

I put a Gates belt on my ES300 and there's 3 lines on it as well.

 

[Falcon_LS]

Originally Posted By: flanso
It sounds like you are getting parts from Lexus/Toyota. Buying the OE belt is desirable because it has three marks already on it; no cumbersome tooth counting. My only delay came before I realized there are actually two marks on the crank sprocket, one for tdc and one for the belt alignment. The great link from KeithG points that out. Initially, I had trouble tensioning the power steering belt on my 2001 ES300; there's not much room. I put a stout snap ring pliers in the adjustment slot, squeezed to get the desired tension and then snugged the bolt. Good luck with your project.


Many thanks! I'm using all OE parts for the project, which is what I usually do. That link is extremely helpful!

 

[nthach]

Gates is a OE supplier to the Japanese - but you'll only see a Gates-branded belt on a American-made Honda engine. The rest are branded Unitta.