Pictures of Timing Belt TB257 & TB257M comparison? Can anyone tell the difference?

[avalonshoe]

Hey guys,

I just got two Mitsuboshi Timing Belts for the Avalon. I ordered two for the 1MZFE but two different model came. There are some minor differences between the same model belt for the same engine. I'm not sure which one to choose for my Avy and the other one for another Avy.

I wanted to know if I should prefer one over the other.

Here are the minor differences : One say TB257 and the other is TB257M






TB257 is the top belt which is made in the USA, the second on the bottom is TB257M which is made in japan. The print is much cleaner on the one made in japan but I don't know what all those numbers mean on the belt. The one in Japan came shrinked-wrapped. Looks like they were all cut from a larger belt band. (Click on the bar to view the full image)




The Top is the TB257 made in the USA which has a Glossy finish on the exterior of the belt and it feels like a harder-type rubber was used (even though they both flex the same). The Bottom is the TB257M which does not have a glossy finish.

[ChiTDI]

Would the "M" be for metric? Are the engines made in different places?

[avalonshoe]

The distributor replied with the following:

"Your belt is the correct belt for that motor. The M at the end of the part number is for Mitsuboshi, the manufacturer. (a Continental belt would be TB257C, etc.)"

Not sure if I buy that. To answer your question, I think most 2000 model and forward AVY engines are built in the US with the Vin # starting with 4T?


I'm not sure if 1MZFE engines in the Solara and Camry engines were tuned differently. So far, all the teeth on the belts and timing marks line up perfectly. I think I'll stick with one made in japan. Besides, it came vacuum wrapped with a silicon pack. That shows some quality!!

[Zembonez]

6 of one.
Half dozen of the other.

Just two belts for the same application that were made in different locations. You should be good to go. The vacuum wrapped one really says "needed to be sealed up because it rode across a big ocean in a metal container on a ship".

[avalonshoe]

Originally Posted by Zembonez

6 of one.
Half dozen of the other.

Haven't seen you in 2nd Gen Avy forum in ages!

I'll keep you all updated with pictures when i take the engine apart.