Timing Belt Change

[jfarcas]

(Yeah, I searched on this one...couldn't find too much technical info, though...)

Hey everyone! I'm new here, but I've been a fan of auto forums for quite some time, and I'm a firm believer in the do it yourself revolution.

I've got a 95 Avalon, which was given to me for free! (I'll post some pics here soon - the front end is wrecked) It has about 160k on it, and has been well maintained - with the possible exception of a timing belt replacement! The guy kept meticulous records of maintenence, including EVERY oil change since he bought it, but I see no indication of timing belt replacement. This scares me.

I want to change it myself, but the last dual cam engine I did was such a pain to line up that I ended having to take it to a shop to have them do it. Bummer, after putting in all teh work to have to pay a guy 200 bucks just to line up the cams and crank.

So, I'm wondering if there's anyone here who's done their own who can give me a good guide for changing the belt/pump/tensioner. I have decent mechanical aptitude and I know the key to any successful job is patience and knowledge, which is why I'm here!

Thanks everyone!

Justin F.

[toyomoho]

Suggest you go to the link below and download the Camry engine service info for the V6 1MZFE. Both cars use the same engine.

http://oregonstate.edu/~tongt/camry

Do a TN Camry search on changing the V6 belt, this has come up before.

The job is not difficult if you have the service info or something to referance in lining up the cam and crank pulleys. If you run into problems, post your issue on the Camry forum stating the engine type.

[jfarcas]

Thanks for the link - that's an awesome resource, I'll search over in the Camry forum as well. I'd like to do a How-To on this eventually, has it been done before?

Justin

[toyomoho]

Not sure if someone has done a How-To on this engine. Did see a How-To on the web on changing the V6 valve stem seals (in car, head still on engine).

[jfarcas]

I think it would be helpful - though it appears that most people who own Avalons just take the car in to have it done...