Best mechanics in Orange County, Ca, tensioner pulley(rattling sound?), timing belt?

[ariadelphi]

I have tried search feature on these issues but to no avail so will ask here:

1. Can anyone recommend a really good, experienced mechanic in the private sector for Orange County, CA? I need some work done but don't want to go to the dealerships(which have terrible reviews).

2. In 2004 when I bought my 98 Corolla from my mother, there had been a persisten rattling sound (for years) at idle that with acceleration went away. The service rep at the dealership I took it to in Redding, CA IMMEDIATELY identified it (if memory serves) as the tensioner belt which needed tightening. Sure enough, that's all it took and the sound went away. Now, some 6 years later, the sound is back with a vengeance. Is this in any way related to the timing belt?

3. I hear different things regarding the timing belt. Some dealers say you must change it after 90K miles while online forums say it doesn't need to be replaced unless there is a loud sound (which makes me concerned now about that rattling at idle). I'm at 137k miles so with the afforementioned sound, I'm wondering if I should be concerned.

Thanks everyone!

[RoachRolla]

98-02 corollas with 1zz-fe have timing chain so you dont have to worry about it like you do with a belt.

Btw, for everyone else, is it true that early 1998 corollas had the 7a-fe engine? saw it in another thread, can someone confirm this?