Timing Belt

[ryanr623]

My 1999 4runner has 93,000 miles and ive heard the timing belts go bad. Never asked the dealer if it was changed because I was unaware of the problem. Is there anyway to tell if is newer or older? (IE old ones tend to crack, chipping, noise etc)?

 

[004Gunner]

Some people report that the engine is quieter after changing the t-belt, but I noticed absolutely no difference when I recently changed mine at 116k miles. The old belt I removed looked like it could have gone to 200k with ease. If you take the time to remove the parts for inspecting the belt then you may as well replace it. I think most people would agree that it may be a little premature in your case because I believe the belts routinely go 110k to 120k. It is a non interference engine but it is still a better idea to replace before it snaps and peace of mind has no price tag. I would check service stickers under the hood and look for writing on the upper timing belt cover to see if anyone recorded a t-belt change.

 

[pat161]

I have not heard of a tbelt going bad on the 3.4, plenty of people push them way over the 90k interval. I did the job in my 02 at 85k mostly because the water pump was leaking and there was no sense in opening it up twice. My belt pretty much looked brand new and I have no doubt it could have lasted much longer.