Crankshaft timing gear question - Toyota Nation Forum : Toyota Car and Truck Forums

hank2u · 07-23-2006, 09:22 AM

I have a 95 XLE V-6 Camry.
Does anyone know if I need to replace crankshaft timing gear if it is missing a tooth on the outer edge of gear-not where belt rides on. I do not know how or if the timing sensor would be able to read if it is missing a tooth? How does that work? I did a timing belt replacement with little knowledge. Hardest thing was getting all timing marks to align but was able to do so after a playing with it. I had to replace the front oil seal when I noticed tooth missing off outer edge of the crank timing gear-how that happen?
Any suggestions? Hank!

***toyomoho*** · 07-23-2006, 04:20 PM

Was this damage present before you found it and did the engine run OK prior to the timing belt change? If the belt does not ride on the damaged part of the tooth and the engine operated OK, then it should be fine.

The timing sensor is a magnetic pickup. It senses the teeth as they pass by. Look at where the sensor is mounted in relation to the cam pulley. It most likely senses in the middle of the tooth.

Someone could have put a screwdriver or hammer to it. Check the area around the tooth for cracks and other damage. If all looks OK, then don't worry.

hank2u · 07-24-2006, 10:33 AM

Thanks for reply. The car quit running for the wife. The timng belt was comming apart with pieces of the "thread" wrapping around gears, etc. Since the crank timing gear just slides off with out much resistance, I do not think I broke tooth. Maybe the thread wrapped around and sheared tooth off. It seems to be a dealer part, so hopefully it won't set me back too far. It is a great car quick, etc, so I guess it is worth it. Thanks-Hank!

hank2u · 08-20-2006, 10:34 PM

OK guys. I replaced the crankshaft timing gear due to the missing tooth. Eventually the crankshaft position sensor can not read the gear due to the missing tooth and can not electronically have proper timing. My car ran poorly, then I replaced the gear and it ran good as new. I guess the belt had wrapped around gear shearing the tooth off. I had to special order the part $36 plus shipping as the local dealerships had not sold on in 8 months. Good luck! Hank!

***toyomoho*** · 08-21-2006, 12:43 AM

Glad to hear you got the car running again and for only $36. You should have many more good miles left on the car.