Strange sound and smoke coming from vehicle after driving for almost 2hrs. Closer look seems like it's timing belt related. Waiting for tow.

 

What did the "closer look" show you??

Year and mileage on the truck? Years/miles since the timing belt was replaced?

Steve

 

It turns out that the problem is the AC condenser. The "smoke" came from leaking freon. Was able to drive from PA to MS without using the AC and other functions related to it like the defroster, etc. I don't know much about the LX470. Loved the ride though. Thanks for the concern, Steve.

 

As a follow up to my AC problems, I did the following:
1. Bought a compressor and clutch on ebay about $350
2. Had them replaced/installed by indie here in Vidalia, LA (Dura Imports, really decent guy) for $250
3. After job completed, he states AC worked for a while only then stopped. Compressor and clutch all check out fine, air blows, but not cold.
4. Called Toyota in Natchez, and they confirmed the could diagnose.
5. The find no fault and confess there are some things they couldn't do, go figure. They confirm "everything" checks out fine: freon level, no leaks, compressor and clutch, etc. Cost me $113 for "partial" diagnosis.
6. Took car to Price LeBlanc Lexus in Baton Rouge: diagnosis reveals air conditioner assembly failure. Cost to replace is $1010 (P&L). Part # LE88650-60B60 Cost: $723.99. Labor 193.50. Part will have to be ordered. Promised to call and nod for ordering.
My internet search is not yielding any results.
Any opinion on this people?

 

PN crosses to the truck's "air conditioner amplifier assembly"...kind of like a climate control computer that controls everything. Not easy to R&R. Parts price, to me, is on the high side...check here http://www.toyotapartsdeal.com/oem/t...650-60B60.html Going rate on the web for the thing is in the low $500 area.

I hope the stuff in Visalia works out once Lexus is done with the truck.

 

Thank you so much, sir. Bought an older one on Ebay for $140 and 30 days warranty. Figured it is a "cheaper" way to test the diagnosis.