I recently got a 2007 Sequoia 4.7L 2wd w/ 142K miles. Probably had timing belt changed at 90K, but can't verify.
I'm having timing belt changed because I don't want to ruin motor if it wasn't done and I plan on keeping as tow vehicle for as long as I can. My question is: When changing timing belt what else should be replaced? I've read water pump, idler, tensioner, thermostat, accessory drive belt and front crankshaft end seal. The radiator also has a medium leak, would it be cheaper to have that changed at the same time? Changing out the radiator is within my skill level but would I get a discount or something if timing belt and radiator were done together?
Thanks in advance for any suggestions/info.
While the radiator itself doesn’t necessarily need to be touched to change the timing belt, many cars have the water pump connected to the timing belt. So it makes sense to do the water pump while you are down there. (As well as the tensioners and stuff).
It may* make sense to do the radiator at the same time, because changing the water pump means, refilling part of the radiator.
I can see two arguments
1) Might as well drain the whole thing and change the radiator. Since the the coolant system is going to be drained partially anyway. And you won’t have to double change out the transmission fluid.
2) Coolant isn’t too expensive. I don’t know how much you would be saving in terms of money by paying a mechanic to change out the radiator and drain and fill the system.
Maybe do the math. If the mechanic can give you a good deal, change the radiator with him. If it is significantly cheaper to do it yourself, then do it yourself.
I highly suggest going with an oem Aisin kit, you can get them from amazon, and many other places.
A mechanic friend recommended getting a kit from carquest, and my water pump didn't last 80k miles on my 98 4runner.
I have this one on my wish list for amazon for my GX470 with the same engine as yours. It does not have a thermostat with it though.
would I get a discount or something if timing belt and radiator were done together
Maybe a bit. Not huge, but you need to clarify that with your mechanic.
