Timing belt, crank seal, water pump ?

[bobk544]

Hello,

I have a 1999 Camry 4cyl 90k miles and i'm wondering if i can gamble and just have the timing belt replaced and maybe avoid replacing the crank seal as recommended by the dealer? In other words, does anyone know if the crank seal really typically needs to be replaced at 90k or could it hang in there alot longer if one is a light footed driver possibly?

Reason is there is a big difference in the cost from $250 to replace the belt up to $550 if they also replace the crank seal and $900 if they replace the water pump, but it looks like i may be able to replace the water pump myself cos it looks like it's external to the timing belt housing.

Thanks very much for any insights on these components!

BobK

[toyomoho]

Is this price for just the crank seal or all the seals? If just the crank the additional $250 is outrageous as the seal is readily accessed when changing the belt.

$250 for the pump is "normal" for a Toyota dealer. The pump is typically replaced by owners (DIY) at the 2nd belt change. The pump is NOT external and is driven by the timing belt.

There is also a camshaft and oil pump seal that can leak, wondering why the dealer suggested only the crank.

Personally would just replace the belt unless you have cash to burn. The dealer should inspect the seals and change them if leaking.

If you are handy with tools changing a timing belt is not that difficult, pickup a Haynes shop manual and review the procedure. Use after market parts to save more $$$.