Should I change timing belt/water pump?

[chupo50]

Hi everyone, I've checked messages in the forums but still am not sure about what to do. I have a 2002 4runner, 6 cyls, at about 106,000 miles. I got it as a used car around 3+ years ago at about 60,000 miles, and thus I believe the timing belt/water pump were not changed.

The dealer strongly suggested me to change them asap, quoting about $850+. I found some people in the forum said no hurry, but some said it's better to change, especially if the engine is interference engine (no idea if my engine is or not; no documents of the car indicate anything about it). By the way, I don't have the skills or time to do it myself at all...

Any opinion is appreciated. Thanks!

 

[fourwd1]

A timing belt is good for about 80k miles, and it's 15 yrs old.
REPLACE IT.

 

[Lester Lugnut]

I would also replace the timing belt tensioner.

 

[BlackWorksInc]

Usually Toyota recommends 9yr/90k on their timing belts, you are well over that.

The belts actually end up looking decent when you take them off because of the material they are made of. Sometimes they look obviously worn and other times they look almost lightly used. But the material can wear out and break even when looking "okay", hence the time & mileage recommendation.

I would say you should have the belt changed sooner than later.

 

[Juicy]

I'm debating the same thing with my 2000 Nissan Pathfinder with 225k, $850 seems expensive but it's waaaaay cheaper than what you will have to pay if the belt snaps while you are driving it. Not to mention you will be out of a car while (if) it's getting fixed or you are looking for a new one because it wouldn't be cost effective to fix. I'd go with the better safe than sorry motto. :biggrin1:

 

[poleclimber63]

It's time to change. Its not panic time however as this is a non-interference engine, but at this point, its more a risk on odds. I've seen TB's go 50% over their recommended replacement cycle and yes, it was quite stretched and my guess, it didn't have long. I've seen one that went 100% over (my son's old Mazda) and it was quite frayed and really stretched--- it would have failed anytime! so, bottom line is yes, its time to change, but I wouldn't panic, and if its cold and snowy where you are, wait till Spring if you're considering doing it yourself. If you're taking it somewhere, post your location, and hopefully a fellow member can recommend a shop---- ask around among friends.

If You're thinking of doing it yourself, check out some threads here and consider ordering a Rockauto kit:
2001 TOYOTA 4RUNNER 3.4L V6 Timing Belt & Component Kit | RockAuto

go for the Aisin TKT005 kit as they are the closest thing to OEM.

The other option is OEM from Toyota of Dallas or Camelback Toyota online, but they will be more expensive.

Rockauto/Aisin is what I used when I did my engine replacement 3 yrs ago. Np.

Don't go Gates, As I had a vehicle that had a WP failure 5 mo. after replacement.

It is a reasonably big job, however, research it ensure you have the tools required and FSM online (its all over the web) and acquire everything before-hand ie coolant(as you must remove the rad), loctite (for the crank bolt), tools--- torque wrench(borrow/rent) etc..

Good luck!

 

[chupo50]

Thank you all

Hi everyone, thanks for the replies. Actually, the shop quoted me $930. It was a dealer in ABQ, NM. I live in a tiny town in southwest of NM, but go to ABQ, Las Cruces, or even Tucson, AZ about once a month. If anyone knows a good shop around the area please tell. Thanks!

 

[ran]

I told my wife to expect water pump on here 2002 3.4 Taco, the dealer didn't, I expect they will bring it up next next and burn her for more $.
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2007 SE V6 Titanium

 

[fourwd1]

So is it done yet ?

 

[haptizum]

I told my wife to expect water pump on here 2002 3.4 Taco, the dealer didn't, I expect they will bring it up next next and burn her for more $.
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2007 SE V6 Titanium

Do you have a good mechanic to go to, or are you doing this at the dealer?

 

[ran]

My wife likes the dealership, bought the truck new. Will not let me touch it.
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2007 SE V6 Titanium