So my 4runner is starting to squeal for about 3 to 5 seconds when I start it. Always happens in the morning or after its been sitting for awhile. If I start after not that long after driving it sometimes doesn't make the noise. Truck runs fine none the less. I'm wondering if my belts need replacing? Truck has 168k on it and runs great. I bought it with 115k and I have not changed any belts whatsoever. I know the timing belt will need to be done soon cause Im not sure when it was replaced. Assuming it was replaced at around 90k and I'd be surprised if it were original. Other than that the 4runner rides awesome so I wonder if anyone had any ideas for me. If I need to replace belts, I am wondering if I should replaced all of them and timing belt(also I've heard water pump should be done with timing belt). Thanks guys, I love this site.
squeal when starting my 4runner...
- Thread starter hdoggie24
- Start date
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The squeal is probably not the timing belt, but doing the timing belt is a good idea. If you plan on doing the timing belt, do the water pump and change all the other belts at the same time, you'll have to take them off anyway.
It is probably one of your drive belts (ac, power steering or fan) that is causing the squeal but if they are all original, they should all be replaced.
It is probably one of your drive belts (ac, power steering or fan) that is causing the squeal but if they are all original, they should all be replaced.
TheDurk
Elite Member
Unless there is a sticker or a service record, there is no good reason to assume TB was done at 90K. I waited until 120K to do my own. The PS belt was just starting to squeal and tightening did not help. At a certain point they wear out and you are just at that point if they are original. Since most would change accessory belts with the TB change (I did), this goes further to suggest that maybe the TB was NOT done.
I would check tension on all three belts. You can use a spray bottle of water to figure out which belt is squealing. Just spray each pulley in turn until it stops and that's your culprit. Careful with your hands!
If tightening does not help then belts are worn. The safe thing then would be to assume TB was not done, and go ahead and do TB, WP, idlers, thermostat, and accessory belts, and then button it up for another 120K or so.
As stated above, a toothed timing belt will never squeal. It's one of the front three.
I would check tension on all three belts. You can use a spray bottle of water to figure out which belt is squealing. Just spray each pulley in turn until it stops and that's your culprit. Careful with your hands!
If tightening does not help then belts are worn. The safe thing then would be to assume TB was not done, and go ahead and do TB, WP, idlers, thermostat, and accessory belts, and then button it up for another 120K or so.
As stated above, a toothed timing belt will never squeal. It's one of the front three.
