Anyone replaced plate that mounts the fan?

[stir_fry_boy]

Has anyone replaced the plate covering the timing belt that mounts the fan?

What mileage?

This part is expensive (>$500 at dealer), I've replaced it on my brother's 98 at 180k due to noise. Now, I think mine is going bad, it's squeaking at idle despite all the belts being tight and new. I'm just wondering how many people have replaced it?

 

[bama16]

i'v heard it called a few names, but most have known it as the dummy water pump. I bought aftermarket and it's been fine for years.

 

[TheDurk]

You can get the OEM Aisin fan bracket (aka fake/dummy water pump) on Amazon with Prime shipping for $135. Identical to dealer part minus expensive red box. Eff the stealer. Part number is FBT-004.

http://www.amazon.com/Aisin-FBT-004-Fan-Pulley-
Bracket/dp/B0031GE6X2

Here's a whole thread I had bookmarked, including a DIY in there somewhere.

http://www.toyota-4runner.org/3rd-gen-t4rs/73373-need-new-engine-fan-bracket-bearing-bearing-whole-bracket.html

EDIT: RockAuto also has it for $109 plus shipping.

http://www.rockauto.com/catalog/raframecatalog.php?catalog=191&partnum=FBT004&a=www.google.com%2BSearch%2Bfor%2BAISIN%2BFBT004&blanktemplate=true

 

[nissanh]

I replace the fan bracket without draining coolant.

Remove the fan and fan clutch (12 mm), but let it rest against the radiator core (place a cardboard between the fan and the radiator core)
Removed the drive belts (P/S and alternator) : Note: It is super easy to access the P/S adjuster bolt if you remove the air filter box
Remove 4 or 5 10 mm bolts on the timing belt cover and the cam sensor plug
Remove the fan bracket (14 mm bolts).

Assembly.
Apply anti-seize grease to the fan bracket studs/nuts. I used 22ft/lb torque to tight all that.
Took about 40 minutes for everything.

 

[stir_fry_boy]

I'll probably just replace it at the same time as the timing belt which is due soon.