Hi all,
Lexus GS300, standard 1997. It's at 130k miles and there's no history as to whether it's had a belt change at 120k miles as it should have. Running great but of course this doesn't mean anything as when it goes it goes. Don't have the money to pay out to a garage + I'm nervous at farming it out anyway given the reported sensitivities of the harmonic balancer and problems with garages heating up the holding bolt etc. So I'm contemplating doing it myself, a couple of questions beforehand:
1. Any definitive guides, written and visual that anyone can link me to or any pearls of wisdom to impart?
2. Can I get sight of the belt fairly quickly without too much work (especially as I'm definitely changing plugs and leads) and if so is there any sure fire way of working out how new the belt is? Stupid question I know as it's just a visual check but is there a wear mark, teeth or something I can measure to establish whether it's done 10k miles or 70k?
3. Is it good practice to change the other belt/belts while it's all apart? Also, any other jobs worth doing or checking on whilst it's open?
4. Given I've read there can be problems with the crankshaft pulley I've found a cheap lightweight one on Ebay; http://cgi.ebay.co.uk/ws/eBayISAPI.dll?ViewItem&item=220468804533&ssPageName=STRK:MEWAX:IT a good idea or to be avoided?
5. Found this timing belt kit on Ebay; http://cgi.ebay.co.uk/Lexus-Timing-Belt-Kit-GS300-3-0-2JZGE-JT8BD69S-/260617147898?cmd=ViewItem&pt=UK_CarsParts_Vehicles_CarParts_SM&hash=item3cadfe15fa does it look okay or should I be going genuine?
6. Is there anyone in the South East area (I'm in Medway, Kent) who has the crankshaft holding tool that's willing to hire it to me? Or any tricks of the trade to get it off without bespoke tools. I can do basic welding so if anyone's improvised a tool before I'm all ears.
I use the car for my daily commute so preparation/time is of the essence, I have to do the work over a weekend ready for Monday's commute ideally so any bits needed in advance have to be planned.
Thanking you in advance for any responses.
Sunny.