'96 Avalon Timing Belt Change What Other Things to Replace?

[Brown Bear]

Hello Everyone,

Boy, I've been busy on this forum this week with, yet, another question. I've replaced the front struts, and have some Moog sway bar bushings on order (see my previous post - still need an answer, please), so I'm thinking that I'll replace the original timing belt (151,000) along with the water pump, and idler pulley. While I'm down there, what other gaskets or seals should I replace?

I will replace the power steering and a/c belts, too. I'm tired of power steering fluid leaks all over my driveway and thought it was coming from the rack, but it's somewhere from above the engine and flowing down all over my suspension parts. I suspect the power steering oil may have deteriorated my passenger side sway bar bushing. Is it common for the pump to have a leak or around the pressure hose fitting? I haven't investigated it that closely. Just a suspicion.

Also, while I'm at it, I think I'll replace the valve cover gaskets. Those are slowly leaking engine oil on the manifold, which seems to be a common problem on the Avalons. Any advice for any of the above procedures will be greatly appreciated.

Thanks a bunch,
Jack

[skynet1988]

a bit of advise, when you get your waterpump, make sure that it has the metal gasket with the rubber around the perimeter instead of the paper one, or get the gasket from the toyota dealer (same style). it will save you from leaking coolant!

[Brown Bear]

Thanks, Skynet1988, excellent advice. I'm gathering prices right now on the pump from local auto parts houses, and I'll make sure the gasket is like the dealership variety. The last thing I need is a cheap paper gasket to fail down the road.

I'm running the "red" Toyota coolant. Any need to do that anymore I see Preston has multi-use antifreeze, now, with all types of 100,000 mile claims? Years ago it was suggested that only the "red" coolant was required by Toyota. I wonder if that's changed?

Since I'm gonna change out the pump I might was well change out the coolant, too. It's been about 75,000 miles since I did that, and with the Texas heat now in the 100 degree plus range everyday, it's probably wise to do it.

Thanks bud,
Jack

[rickgt350]

I just did this and got new belts and replaced a leaky cam seal.

[Brown Bear]

Originally Posted by rickgt350

I just did this and got new belts and replaced a leaky cam seal.

Thanks, Rickgt350, for the tip! Yeah, I want to replace any seal possible while I've got the timing belt cover off. I'm tired of leaks. I've never replaced a timing belt, but am a competent mechanic. Is this a pretty straight-forward job? Any special tools i should know about? I've got the usual metric ratchets with socket sets, and box wrenches. No multi-angled or jointed drives, however. Don't know if it's necessary?

Thanks, bud,
Jack