Poqman

It's doable. Without a doubt, you need to understand what you are doing when putting in a timing belt. As long as you understand the alignment of the crank and cams, then it is pretty straight forward. I did not have a manual. I only used the threads on Club Lexus and YouTube videos to understand the process. Do a search for Bgw70's thread. The recommended replacement is 9 years or 90k miles. I replaced at 81k miles and 10 years. The belt that was replaced showed very little wear, but did show signs of stretching (about 1/2 tooth) when compared to the new belt. No gasket set is required changing the TB, however I also replaced the water pump and the required gaskets were included. I also replaced the tensioner, tensioner bearing, idler bearing and serpentine belt. The engine runs like new. Very smooth.

Poqman

Thanks Bgw70! Without a doubt, it is an involved procedure. For me, breaking the crank bolt loose was the hardest. I had bought the recommended 700 ft-lb impact wrench, but no luck, even at 130 psi. Your special tool design worked, but I actually broke a 8mm bolt in the pulley on my first try and had to use an EZ-out to remove and try again. I finally used a 3' lever and it broke loose. The crank pulley came right off. No puller was required. The crank bolt had corrosion on the threads.
I have to say I'm shocked I'm the first to miss this gasket on re-assembly. It was the only "got ya" I encountered. I can't say I'm looking forward to re-installing it in a couple of weeks.

Lesly1

Thank you Poqman, I'll try & chase up the original owner & see if I can get some info.

Chris.

Bgw70

Here is the link to my thread...one important note for you, I only used the crank tool to tighten the bolt. The starter was used to loosen the bolt.
Good Luck and take your time.
https://www.clublexus.com/forums/sc4...bws-sc430.html

Poqman

As a final note, I pulled apart the engine to install the missing gasket that's discussed. It was not worth the effort. The spacer does a good job sealing to the engine block without the gasket. I did install the gasket and am satisfied I now have no parts left over, but the effort wasn't worth the gain. Unless you are a perfectionist and make the same mistake I did, I'd say forget about it.