TexasSC300

I've had my SC3 almost a year now. She's a 98' with 79k on the clock.

As far as main goes...

1. How do you fellow SC'ers feel about synthetic oil?
2. Which Auto trans fluid do you use?
3. Timing belt replaced every 60k or so?
4. Water pump just gets replaced no matter if it's a problem or not?
5. Power steering fluid?
6. Brake fluid?
7. Coolant?

I'm on it for this month. I've already started to make a budget on the matter. Just need some good recommendations on this. Thanks!!

suislide

1. I use regular oil since I hardly drive and only to work; my oil change intervals last longer
2. I would use the recommended fluid type
3. Only if its recommended or if I start hearing a squealing sound
4. At least you'll know it's new
5. For power steering use the recommended Dexron ATF (auto tranny fluid)
6. The recommended fluid type
7. I hear Peak is great but I just buy the advance auto parts 50/50 mix

TexasSC300

Thanks Suislide! Gettin' it done before the real mods are started...

BLK13X

My take on it...


1. How do you fellow SC'ers feel about synthetic oil?
I've used synthetic oil in my Soarers since day one (that's since 2001 lol).


2. Which Auto trans fluid do you use?
On my turbo Soarer I use Dexron III, my V8 uses Toyota Type-IV.


3. Timing belt replaced every 60k or so?
Yes. Well I'd recommend it to be done in those intervals, however newer style belts, especially for VVTi cars have been designed for longer service life (mine recommended changing after 100k km).


4. Water pump just gets replaced no matter if it's a problem or not?
Might as well since the belts and general front end of engine bay is off. Save yourself time and do it at once.


5. Power steering fluid?
I'm pretty sure that normal ATF would be fine. Check the fluid company's website for compatibility.


6. Brake fluid?
OEM from memory.


7. Coolant?

Again Toyota Red coolant. You might as well swap out the termostat while you're at it.

TexasSC300

Very cool BLK13X!

Thanks for your take on that.

boostinsc

wow i need all this stuff done how much for everything? it has been a year since i have had my sc too its due for an oil change this week and i heard the belt squeaking

Matthieu

Really appreciate you making this post, I just picked up my sc300 this week and was wondering the same thing about my maintenance.

MSBlade

iTrader: (1)

don't forget to change the rear diff fluid as well, too many people forget about that one.
Also if you have a 5 speed, to change out that fluid as well

TexasSC300

Seriously, can't even imagine after finding a SC with THAT low miles only to have the Timing belt break on me! Taking care of this little lady!!

MidloSC

iTrader: (1)

I'm replacing mine now, before it breaks. So far it has been the easiest timing belt/Chain I've done.

1. How do you fellow SC'ers feel about synthetic oil? If you have no leaks go for it, but be warned it will find a weak spot in any sealing surface.

2. Which Auto trans fluid do you use? Dexron

3. Timing belt replaced every 60k or so? 90,000 is recommended. Mine has 123,500 on it.

4. Water pump just gets replaced no matter if it's a problem or not? While your in doing the belt yes. Just added insurance.

5. Power steering fluid? Dexron

6. Brake fluid? DOT 3 I believe

7. Coolant? Toyota Red since that is what is in there now.

lookEVO

iTrader: (1)

Its not an interference engine. Youd be fine pretty much.

MidloSC

iTrader: (1)

I thought the VVTi engines were interference engines.

MDSC

iTrader: (3)

search button this been covered a million times

cbrasian

My input but I'm running a 2jzgte swap

1. How do you fellow SC'ers feel about synthetic oil?
Nothing but royal purple and mobile 1

2. Which Auto trans fluid do you use?
Toyota Type 4

3. Timing belt replaced every 60k or so?
depends on how its wears but all depends on my visual inspection not mileage....

4. Water pump just gets replaced no matter if it's a problem or not?

Again depends on my inspection but if it isn't broke why fix it?

5. Power steering fluid?
Toyota fluid once again

6. Brake fluid?

ATE Super Blue

7. Coolant?

Toyota Red coolant with redline water wetter

TexasSC300

The VVT-i engines ARE interference engines!! If the T-Belt goes you are screwed!!!
Get it done on time!