rsen99

Finished the timing belt and water pump. Car was on jack stands for 2 weeks, mostly because i didn't have time week nights and was missing tools that I had to wait for or build. All told this might have been 8-12 hours. The old belt was starting to show some inner red fibers on the edges and I could hear a 'pumping' noise that made me think water pump or idler bearings

I had a Haynes manual (or was it Chilton)from the library which was pretty complete but didn't say anything about #3 or #6. Some special notes...
1) If your new timing belt doesn't come with marks, mark the old belt. Crankshaft has 2 dimples. When the one on the black gear is at TDC, the other dimple is at about the 3oclock position, this the 3rd spot where you mark the belt.
2) Power steering pump could swing out of way, alternator was weird with its adjusting bolt.
3) I made this tool...
Special Tool
https://www.clublexus.com/forums/rx-...ghtmare-2.html
crankshaft bolt was still REALLY hard to get off. This tool is necessary.
4) I didn't have to remove windshield washer tray, mirrors helped with alignment on rear cam.
5) I didn't undo any engine mounts to tilt or lift the engine.
6) Stud removal tool (from video) was awesome. Sears Item# 00996461000
7) Video was really good. The Haynes manual talked about removing the valve covers to be able to reinstall the water pump, the video showed how to pry up the black metal rear cover to fit water pump underneath.
Very helpful videos
www.youtube.com/watch?v=DI60MOkf168
www.youtube.com/watch?v=7D_8u1GkRkM
8) I also got a wheel puller from sears. Sears Item# 00941833000

Helpful Forum
http://www.clublexus.com/forums/rx-s...nightmare.html

$229.00 Timing belt, water pump, idler pulley, tensioner, tensioner pulley and a small set of instructions from ******************.com
$40.00 for two new serpentine belts
$48.00 for 2 gallons Toyota AF
$20.00 for wheel puller
$30.00 for the special tool (14 for flat metal, 14 for drill bits, 2 for screws and washers)
$367.00 total vs the quote of $1,170.00

Send me a message if anyone wants more info.

MikeyK02

iTrader: (7)

Good stuff. I wish I had the time to work on my cars myself, glad to see you saved a whole lotta cash in the process!

thomas1

gREAT JOB, I too did mine belt,waterpump, and idlers on my RX400h....Saved a lot of money....Had already bought kit for the RX300, the only different part was the tensioner....I too made a tool, man what a lifesaver......