My timing belt broke and bent valves both sides. Qualified Japanese mechanic said upper part of motor could be repaired but lower part is a BIG RISK. I need to install a low mile used engine with price around Atlanta range from $4,500 to $6,500. Refurbished is even more. Lexus dealers are over $10,000. The car is in nice shape other than the engine. Are there any engines that will fit other than another 2002 LS430? If you've had a similar problems I'd like your input. Help!
Thanks. Howard

 

How many miles were on your car?

 

Was this original timing belt? How many miles were on the car? If not the original belt, how many miles since it had been changed?

This shows that those who go way beyond the suggested six year time frame are living dangerously. A senior Lexus tech once told me that pushing the time frame by 50% to 9 years was ok but doubling it to 12 or beyond meant you were pushing your luck.

In any case, you may want to consider replacing the car with another '01 to '03 LS and selling the old car for parts. If you work hard at it and have a little luck, you may be better off.

 

used motor and transmission on ebay for$1699, but its in texas

 

I'm with the others who want more information on how a low mile belt broke.
As far as what I'd do, I'd get an engine from a wrecked body via the internet and have the entire thing installed. Your car is still going on 13 years so new or rebuilt is a waste of money. Low mile used engine...why? How many miles are on the car?
Here is one of many places to start looking
http://www.hollanderparts.com/

 

hey hstopeck..dude...you're going to get bombarded until you tell us lots more about this failure. Not many subjects on this board that folks are more interested in than tb failures...and real data associated with such.
pics of the broken belt would be especially interesting, miles, maintenance history, driving habits...any and everything please.

 

4 used motors on ebay 1in Georgia, maryland, 2 in texas stopped looking

 

www.car-part.com

Four motors in GA, ranging from 2450$ to 3800$

If your mechanic didn't know about car-part, I'd suggest changing mechanics... that website has become a staple resource for ALL parts

Not to mention, you can always search for GS430/SC430 motors of the same year range. Some sellers will mark it up because it's an "LS" as opposed to say, the GS.......

 

Please, we are interested in more information on the failure.

Miles?
Original Belt?
Did a idler freeze up?
Why did it fail?

Pictures if possible..... I do believe this may the 1st broken Timing Belt in this forum.

 

1 post, almost a week ago with no replies ? Not sure he is looking for help here....

Maybe he just got a new motor ? Who knows and it seems no one will know if he does not reply...

I'd let this one go...