Timing chain or belt?
#1
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On one of the puctures I saw, the new LS was on a lift in a shop with the camera aiming from the front end of the car toward the rear, under the front bumper area. I noticed that behind the crankshaft and 2 other pulleys, the timing gear cover is made of aluminum instead of plastic material. Usually metal timing gear cover is used together with timing chain to form an air-tight seal to prevent oil leak, since timing chain needs to be lubricated. Car makers usually use plastic cover with a timing belt setup because there is no oil inside the cover. No need to worry about oil leaking out of the cover under normal circumstances. Does anyone know if a chain is indeed used to replace the timing belt that has been used for all previous LS models? If you have an official new LS maintenance schedule, please check if timing belt replacement is mentioned around 90K. If nothing is being said about timing belt replacement, Lexus has just made a bold move that will benefit many LS owners many years down the road.
I also noticed that new-style oil filter (like the 05/06 Avalon's) is used. When you replace the oil filter, you only replace the paper element which is located inside a reusable metal housing - good for the environment. But I can't seem to locate the oil pan in that picture. That is a little odd.
I also noticed that new-style oil filter (like the 05/06 Avalon's) is used. When you replace the oil filter, you only replace the paper element which is located inside a reusable metal housing - good for the environment. But I can't seem to locate the oil pan in that picture. That is a little odd.
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If you have an official new LS maintenance schedule, please check if timing belt replacement is mentioned around 90K. If nothing is being said about timing belt replacement, Lexus has just made a bold move that will benefit many LS owners many years down the road.
My Mainteneace schedule book says "inspect timing belt" at 120K miles, but I remember reading one of the reviews on the new engine was that Lexus went to a metal timing chain. The GS have a 90K inspection
My Mainteneace schedule book says "inspect timing belt" at 120K miles, but I remember reading one of the reviews on the new engine was that Lexus went to a metal timing chain. The GS have a 90K inspection
Last edited by donaldm823; 10-31-06 at 07:34 AM.
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Right. See the interesting link and photo of the LS460 engine cutaway showing the timing chain.
http://lexus.jp/models/ls/performanc...ne/vvt-ie.html
Seems all new V Toyota engines - like the ES350 and Camry V-350
http://lexus.jp/models/ls/performanc...ne/vvt-ie.html
Seems all new V Toyota engines - like the ES350 and Camry V-350
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As long as the engine is non-interference, which I am sure Toyota does with their engines, no problems. Can't say the same for Nissan, after I had a timing chain go on me years ago on a Q45, bent pistons, etc Wasn't a fun experience.
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