Standardized codes on car parts

[Phi]

How do I know what belt to buy for my alternator, SC, etc..

"Some belts are marked in standard, metric, or both. Belt numbers, the ones printed on the belt itself, indicate the length and rib count. e.g. 4PK900 means 4 rib, 900mm. 345K4 means 34.5", 4 rib. I should mention that the counter clerk at the parts store will be confused. Don't worry. Just be nice and ask to go to the racks! If those guys can't pull the part number off the computer, they go into limp mode."

This comes in handy for those that modified the path of the belt either with an SC or removed the AC.

Woohoo! It's true! Here's my SC belt (6PK2250). Now I don't have to get raped by the dealer!!
http://jjj.image.pbase.com/u15/toyca...131397_IMG.jpg

Anybody have other examples they wanna share? (Tires, plugs, paint, VIN)

[Phi]

Ever wonder what the Vehicle Identicifation Number meant?

http://www.autoinsurancetips.com/vin.htm <--Overview
http://www.autoinsurancetips.com/toyota_vin.htm <--Toyota General
http://www.toyotacelicaonline.com/VIN.htm <--Celica specific
http://www.mr2sc.com/websites/Reference/vin.htm <--MR2 specific

[RedruM]

ye always good for the useful info