Is the 3.0vz a non-interference motor? Have one, automatic with 180k and I was riding along the other day and the engine just quit like someone cut the gas off. Well, the fuel pump is still pushing gas and I had a mechanic tell me it's the timing belt and the engine is trashed now. From the forums, I see mixed reviews, but it seems the majority say it's a non-interference motor and just put a new timing belt on(correctly that is), and it should be good to go. What do you think? I heard no loud noises coming from the engine, it just felt like it ran out of gas, and then it would turn over, but wouldn't start. I was about to junk it, but I think I might tear the front end off to see. Thanks for doing what you do, great job!!!!
The 3VZ engine is a non-interference engine. Most if not all of the Toyotas with timing belts are non-interference. The same cannot be said for all manufacturers.
Put your belt on (timed correctly) and it should fire up ; )
So, it would be worth the effort to get a new belt and not listen to the "mechanic" that told me it was trashed? I don't believe it is.
@jimmymac
100%
And maybe find a different mech to do it...
@jimmymac
Depends on your goals for the vehicle. It does have a lot of miles and that is probably why he said it wasn't worth the cost of repair. If you can do the work yourself then why not? Get it running and then save up for something with less miles.
I hardly think 180k on a Toyota V6 is a lot of miles. Everything was fine until this happened and I got a guy ready to tear half the engine apart for 3 grand when I told him to just stop and I towed it home and started my own research. I already have it half way broken down. I just wanted a Scotty expert opinion before I went any farther. And the guy told me he had to tear the engine apart and rebuild the dang thing. Not put a timing belt on. So, yeah, he said it wasn't worth it. But, I guess he was clueless on that too.
Thanks HillyBilly!!! I will let you know.
@jimmymac
Glad your doin it yourself : ) Much more fun fishing and eating fish than just eating the fish.... makes it taste better ; )
Take your time and did I mention timing ; )
HAHAHA. Yes, you did!!! I don't believe it's going to be too bad. There are marks on everything already to line everything up and marks on the belt. Have watched several through youtubes on it and I should have it done in a day. I'm just glad I didn't take this dude's words. I was about to spend 10 grand on a 2004 GX470. Now it's a $100 timing belt, tensioner pulley and spring and water pump. I'm going to replace more than that while I have her opened up a bit. Thanks again for the mental support along with the sound advice!!!
And do you recommend any brand over another(Not Toyota)? ACDELCO, CONTITECH, GATES, AISIN, DAYCO, US MOTOR WORKS.
@jimmymac
Aisin