Timing Belt

[hulk311]

If the timing belt brakes on the 3rd gen 4runner will it ruin the engine or anything else?

Reason why I am asking is I have a '97 4runner with 175k miles on it and I believe that the timing belt has never been changed. To fix it it's $300 for the ebay kit (includes water pump, belts, timing belt, etc.) and installation is around $500. Now the thing is my wife and I are looking to purchase a new car soon in the near future, so we are debating if it's worth almost $1k to fix this vehicle or should we put that towards the new vehicle or if we should just wait till the timing belt brakes.

 

[HCurphy]

non-interference motor. 5VZ for sure and the 3VZ as well im pretty sure.
I'm sure I could google it, but i'll leave that to you.

Pulleys and tensioners will probably go before the belt(which will take the belt with it)--I've never heard of a belt breaking on its own. Worst case scenario is you would be stranded wherever the componet breaks.

 

[tbst]

6 is non-interference, you will just be stranded. 4 has a chain, so no worries.

 

[T4R_Finally]

It wont ruin the engine but it may ruin your day or your plans. Why not just do it? Peace of mind for you and makes it more attractive if/when you sell it. Check out the buyers guide sticky - its one of the main things people should look for when buying.

 

[jmovz22]

What's the normal mileage interval for changing on 4runners?

 

[T4R_Finally]

What's the normal mileage interval for changing on 4runners?

80 to 90k is recommended. Mine was changed at 98k - I've seen others report close to 200k without ever being changed.

 

[bitchaaz]

I've seen others report close to 200k without ever being changed.

That would be me. Going on 188k and will be done @ 190. Im getting a bearing squeal from the front side. And a little drip of coolant from the water pump. No biggie. It can wait for another 2k.


No sign of cracks in it yet.

 

[LittleCaesar]

By the time I get to 188xxx miles, it will be the year 2020.

I'd say stretch it out to 200,000.

 

[jrctoby]

Ok I'm new to this forum. I have an 07 4runner nearing timing belt (chain) replacement. Does my 4.0l have variable valve timing and a chain or a belt? Would it be a good idea to attempt this job in the driveway?

 

[PitbullRescuer]

Welcome to the forum. You have a 4th Gen though. I'm not familiar with the 4.0, you would have better luck posting your question in the 4th Gen sub forum.