97 T4R Timing belt inspection

[pettybilt]

First time posting, long time reader.Hoping you guys can give me your opinion on what to do.
I recently grabbed a nice 97 4runner 5 speed 4x4 sr5 with 147k miles. Its in great shape, however i have no maintenance records. So my question is looking at the condition of my timing belt, what would you do, replace it, or drive on for a while? I can tell by looking at the bolts for the covers, they appear to have been taken out before. I have no water pump leaks and i can still read the part number on the belt.

Thanks for looking, Doug
Here are links to the pics

http://sdrv.ms/PX4phB
http://sdrv.ms/PX3nlD

 

[Nates_NW4Runner]

It looks to me like it's in good/newer condition. Your water pump and thermostat housing have been painted blue for whatever reason...

I'd personally be more concerned with why there is a missing bolt, and if there are any others missing. The bolt in question (second attachment) does not have to be taken out to do the timing belt/water pump service... but maybe they did valve cover gaskets, cam seals or something else deeper while they were there doing the TB/WP...?

Welcome! :cheers:

 

[pettybilt]

Thanks for looking, good eye i didn't notice that bolt missing. I'll guess i'll pull the covers off and check for other bolts missing. Maybe some else has seen a blue water pump will chime in