Timing Belt Interval

[NCGuy68]

Originally Posted By: ARB1977
Originally Posted By: benjamming

That Tacoma should be a non-interference type if I'm not badly mistaken so much less to lose in the event of a failure.

Yea its non-interference.


Relax.....I've owned a number of Toyotas' (both 4 and 6 cyl) that have went over 150K miles on the original belt, tensioner and pulleys. Currently own a 96 Camry (2.2L 4 cyl) with 162K miles and the belt shows no signs of deterioration.

 

[TexasHonda]

The timing belt might last 200K/20 yrs, but the tensioners or water pump will not. I've found tensioner bearings on two occasions that were almost dry after 2nd TB change (90K interval on Accord). Tensioner bearings would not have made a 3rd TB interval before siezing. Siezure would almost certainly result in TB failure and engine damage. Tensioner parts are inexpensive, and bearings can be repacked for those comfortable w/ this procedure.

good luck

 

[NCGuy68]

Originally Posted By: TexasHonda
The timing belt might last 200K/20 yrs, but the tensioners or water pump will not.


Although this is a common recomendation to replace, I've never had a tensioner or water pump failure with my Toyotas. I DO add water pump lube every time I change antifrezze and I will replace the tensioner, pulleys and TB around 175K miles. Had to give up my 1990 Camry that was still running strong (210K miles) because the paint was flaking off the hood. Wife said is was too ugly to have in the driveway.

 

[IndyIan]

Originally Posted By: kingrob
Ian, do they make an aftermarket tensioner to replace the problematic one? In your case it is irrelevant whether you have a chain or belt, but you should definitely get that tensioner checked or replaced with a better part. I actually think you're better off with the chain in this situation. I've never had to replace one in all the years of automobile ownership. I have seen belts snap unexpectedly and with catastrophic engine failure, though.

The normal practice is just to listen to the engine on start up and it should quiet down quite quickly, if not then get a probe out and listen for where the noise is coming from....
There are some guys with 200,000+ miles with no problems, so unless I'm headed on a trip across Siberia I'll just listen and risk it. Its a ~$1000 job to have it done.
Ian