Just bought a 97 Avalon!!

[97avy]

Hey guys, after lurking around for a while, I just bought a 97 Avalon XL. I love the car. The 3.0l V6 engine is mighty poewrful, smooth, and quiet compared to my previously owned V6's.

These are great forums..I have found them helpful, and they are one of the reasons I ended up buying this car..I have a few questions about my new car. First off:

I changed the oil today. I used 10w-30 because thats what the previous owner used. I put in 5 full quarts. Is that how much is suppose to go in? I dont have the owners manual..

Also, what are other maintenance specifications?? Timing belt to be replaced at 90k?? The guy I bought it from doesnt know if the t.belt was changed and the car now has 144k. If it breaks is the engine toast?? or can i just put a new belt on and all is well??

Also, whats up with the sludge issue..There is just soo much scattered info..can someone summarize it in a paragraph or two??

After I changed the oil, I was looking at the rear spark plugs..How in the world am I suppose to change those?? Also, it looks like this V6 has 3 ignition coils, and 3 "normal" spark plugs wires?? or am i confused??

Thanks in advance everyone..I know I have a load of questions, but I just wanna keep this car running well for a long time

[KeepItSimple]

I use 5W-30 Oil because that's what the owner's manual (and the sticker by the oil filler) says.

I use Chevron Techron Fuel System Cleaner every oil change and it really keeps the engine peppy.

Oh BTW here's an ebay auction for a '97 Avy owner's manual that ends tomorrow. The current bid is $.99. http://cgi.ebay.com/ebaymotors/1997-...spagenameZWDVW

[giff9]

Mind if I ask what you paid? Im thinking about selling my 97 with 83k

[Jagalag]

congratulations.... the first generations were the best representatives of the "Japanese Buick" catchphrase.... smooth, quiet, and solid... I got a '99 myself...wouldn't leave home without it.