I have searched forum for info. on belt replacement & find nothing specific for RX300 (mine is a '99 model). I have replaced many serpentine belts on other vehicles, but am stumped on this one. I would appreciate any step-by-step info. &/or pictures on procedure for RX300. Thanks!

 

Either take a picture or draw a sketch.

With a socket drive (or breaker bar) twist the tesioner to loosen the belt. With the free hand thread it of a pully. Take the belt out and thread in the new one.
Torque the tesioner again and slip the belt up. Let the idler loose and inspect that the belt is squarely on all pulleys.

Very simple.

Salim

 

Thanks for the info., but I am familiar with the basics- problem is, I can't get to the only pulley that resembles a tensioner with a socket wrench- do I have to remove the right front wheel to do so? Also, the tensioner pulley does not look like it is incorporated in the drive belt assembly.

 

My bad "serpentine" put me on the wrong track... I frequent the SC and RX forum and worst of all your orignal post clearly stated RX.

RX has two belts and I think we should not call it a surpentine belt.

Outer : Main pully, alternator and AC comp. The alternator has the tensioner on it.

Inner: Main pully and the steering Pump. {I am assuming the tensioner is on the steering pump}

No need of drawing pinctures as the set up is simple and you cant go wrong.

Figuring out the right tension will be a problem. I wish I could find a cheap source to procure the an accurate gauge. [As long it is consistant, I would be ok as I can calibrate it before removing any belt]

Salim

ps: By any chance are you talking about the timing belt which will be a serpentine belt.

 

I haven't had the need for this yet. At 108,000 miles my belts are still looking good. But I did file this link away for when the time comes. Here is the info you are looking for complete with Toyota part #'s.
http://us.lexusownersclub.com/forums...opic=20442&hl=

 

Salim: You are right- it is not a "serpentine" belt in the true sense. I am referring to the wider belt that is located on the A/C compressor & alternator. In addition to Mikey's (Thanks mikey00!!) post, I found pictures of the bolts I need to loosen in a post from MrApex on 7/6/04 entitled "Tightening belts" (sorry I tried to attach link but couldn't).

As you mentioned, the other belt is on the power steering pump & looks like a real pain to access.

Many thanks to all of you!