GS - 2nd Gen (1998-2005) Discussion about the second generation GS300, GS400 and GS430 (1998 - 2005)

Maintenance question; Ref: Timing Belt

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Old 03-01-08, 06:28 PM
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nate579
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Default Maintenance question; Ref: Timing Belt

Okay, didn't see anything during my search on here so I will ask the question.

Has anyone had their timing belt break on their GS430? If so at what mileage?

The reason I am asking is because my friend has a 01 GS430 with 170,000+ miles on it. I know he is on borrowed time. Everytime I mention to him to get it changed, he just shrug his shoulders and say " Hey it's a Lexus, I am good" He is being cheap, living in a 3/4 of million dollar home but too cheap to shell out $800. I even told him some shops that will do it for less but he just won't listen. Anyway, I see a 2jz swap in my future when the engine goes and he gets rid of it. LMAO!!! Mine is due soon I have 82,000+ on my GS.
Old 03-01-08, 06:45 PM
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TRD911
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YES.. borrowed time.. I guess that is why he lives in a 750K house.. cheats on the good stuff... You could do it for him.

The 430 is a non clearance engine.. as well as the 400...

BP
Old 03-01-08, 06:47 PM
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nate579
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I can barely tie my shoes. But thanks.
Old 03-01-08, 11:18 PM
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GSteg
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You can say I told you so when 32 valves snap Repair bill is going to cost more than the timing belt job itself. I say let him learn his lesson. Maybe he just needs to be stuck on the side of the road or something
Old 03-01-08, 11:38 PM
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tommyjaix
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i'm at 93100 or so miles and have yet to change my tb and wp, ill risk it to 100k miles, just DIY'ed my balljoints and tie rods today car rides like NEW! stiff handling too since I tightened everything including the sterring rack tensioners. lowo on funds and going on spring break, the lexus can tough it out i know it. inspected the belt and see no signs of wear at all, still looks like new.
Old 03-01-08, 11:53 PM
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pitmanr200
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Originally Posted by tommyjaix
i'm at 93100 or so miles and have yet to change my tb and wp, ill risk it to 100k miles, just DIY'ed my balljoints and tie rods today car rides like NEW! stiff handling too since I tightened everything including the sterring rack tensioners. lowo on funds and going on spring break, the lexus can tough it out i know it. inspected the belt and see no signs of wear at all, still looks like new.
how hard to inspect. just take off cover. let me know how long it takes. just got my gs400 and im going to look at it.
Old 03-02-08, 11:11 AM
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3UZFTE
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Nate- Yeah, your friends really being stupid with such a nice car and such an easy maintance. Just because it's an expensive house doesn't mean he has it paid for.

TRD911- I think the term your looking for is a "Non-Interference", not clearance... Which you know refers to if the timing belt brakes, the pistons will come in contact with the valves, basically setting you back $6,000.

Pitman - The cover can be a bit tricky if you don't know what your doing or have the right tools.

I own a 2001 GS430 107k miles, without a doubt i wouldn't be affraid to put another 30k on my belt, however maintance is just cheap insurance to be honest. Let your friend learn his lesson, MOST PEOPLE DON'T KNOW WHAT THEY HAVE TIL' IT'S GONE...
Old 03-02-08, 02:20 PM
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dpayne
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I told Nate the same thing, but the Lexus Technicians I have talked to say they have NEVER seen a timing belt break on a Lexus unless the water pump seized up and broke it. So, they suggest either replacing it sometime after 100,000 miles, or paying close attention to the water pump, such as funny noises or dripping coolant. It will trash the engine if it breaks. THey have also told me, "If you really can't afford to maintiain it, get rid of it". I think that is the best advice.
Old 03-02-08, 02:23 PM
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dpayne
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I"m looking for some help I have not found YET on the forum. My console gears shifter lights went out last night, and I have no idea how to get to to the bulb(s). I thought I'd seek some information and try to fix it myself before I have to take it in for a bulb(s). Any help out there ? It's a 2001 GS-430. Thanks in advance.
Old 03-02-08, 04:41 PM
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nate579
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Thanks everyone, I was hoping to get him a picture of a ruined engine. you know to scare him. Anyway. I have to think he won't be so cheap when the engine repair cost comes. Of course, I been looking for a GS to do a swap so I will offer him $1000.00 for the shell. LOL
Old 03-02-08, 04:45 PM
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pitmanr200
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Originally Posted by 3UZFTE
Nate- Yeah, your friends really being stupid with such a nice car and such an easy maintance. Just because it's an expensive house doesn't mean he has it paid for.

TRD911- I think the term your looking for is a "Non-Interference", not clearance... Which you know refers to if the timing belt brakes, the pistons will come in contact with the valves, basically setting you back $6,000.

Pitman - The cover can be a bit tricky if you don't know what your doing or have the right tools.

I own a 2001 GS430 107k miles, without a doubt i wouldn't be affraid to put another 30k on my belt, however maintance is just cheap insurance to be honest. Let your friend learn his lesson, MOST PEOPLE DON'T KNOW WHAT THEY HAVE TIL' IT'S GONE...
well is there a diy or right up on it. I am good with cars and would like to inspect mine.
Old 03-03-08, 11:17 AM
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Guru
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Changed mine just last week. 140,000 miles on her. Belt looked pretty bad. At 170,000 miles he is asking for it.
Old 03-03-08, 11:41 AM
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PushinLEX
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Penny Wise, Pound Foolish

I'll be changing my TB/WP at 90K. Still got 9K to go
Old 03-04-08, 09:48 PM
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jonny2k
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man, you're buddy's gonna but really sad if that belt breaks
Old 03-05-08, 04:31 AM
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JeffTsai
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I'll beat your offer. Tell him I'll offer $2k for the shell


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