Article
Toyota Car Service in Blackwood
You DON'T have to take your Toyota back to a dealership for servicing. If you're looking for a reliable log book service for your Toyota vehicle contact Blackwood Dyno Tune & Service in Blackwood...
Read moreToyota Landcruiser Prado timing belt & water pump replacement
Landcruiser Timing Belt & Water Pump Replacement
1. This Toyota Landcruiser Prado VZJ95R 1997, came into our workshop to check for a coolant leak under the engine bay.
2. Lifted 4WD vehicle up on hoist, the leak was very evident running down the chassis and coming from timing cover as shown above in image 2. Suspect coolant leaking from water pump.
3. Starting to remove top hose and other components to look inside the timing cover to confirm coolant leak in image 3 below.
4. In image 4 we can see the Timing Cover removed, exposing the water pump and timing belt. Note corrosion evident on inlet and outlet spouts.
5. A view of the engine with timing belt and water pump removed.
6. We removed the leaking water pump from the engine, coolant staining evident around breather hole can be clearly seen in image 6. This should not occur.
7. To remove the water pump, you must remove the timing belt at the same time. As the timing belt was overdue to be replaced on this vehicle, we chose to order the timing belt kit with the water pump. It is more economical to combine both jobs and we checked with the customer first.
8. Our customer decided to replace the top and bottom hoses and radiator at the same time. Image 8 above shows the new cooling system installed and pressure tested, ready for the customers caravanning holiday.
9. What you can't see in the previous photo is the newly installed timing belt kit (incl pulleys and tensioner) and water pump as shown below in image 9...
It's probably a good thing this customer got us to check his Landcruiser over before leaving for his holiday as he can now enjoy his holiday instead of worrying that towing the extra weight of a caravan and all their gear might result in a breakdown.
Timing Belt Replacement FAQ's
Its an important part of maintaining your vehicle.
How often should a Toyota or other vehicle's timing belt be replaced?
The simplest answer is to check your owner’s manual for the manufacturers recommended timing belt replacement interval – every make and model of car is different. However, there are so many factors that could wear down your timing belt even before the recommended ’mileage’, such as coolant or engine oil contaminating the belt from leaking timing cover seals or water pump. If your timing belt breaks the repairs can be very expensive. That makes it important to not rely only on pre-determined timing intervals – but to have your timing belt inspected regularly by professional mechanics at Blackwood Dyno Tune & Service.
How long do timing belts last?
A timing belt can last anywhere between 40k-100k km's. If your vehicle has over 100,000 km's and has never had its timing belt replaced, you should schedule an inspection with us to make sure your vehicle is safe to operate.
How do you know if your timing belt needs changing?
There can be signs that a timing belt needs replacing such as loss of power, using more fuel than normal and engine vibrations or noises – but there can also be no noticeable signs at all, which is why it is important to ensure regular professional inspections as well as knowing the manufacturers recommended timing interval. If you’re not sure when your last timing belt replacement was done – or when your next one is due – talk to our friendly staff who can help you.
What are the signs of a bad timing belt?
- Car Won’t Start or engine is Misfiring
- Engine Is Making Strange Noises - Knocking or ticking
- Check Engine Light ON
- Exhaust Fumes & Smoke
How important is it to replace a Toyota Landcruiser Prado timing belt, or any timing belt, when it's due?
In some vehicles a timing belt breaking or snapping simply means the car will stop running till the belt is replaced, in other vehicles it can cause very expensive damage to the engine and/or pistons – which may even be irreparable. And an engine replacement is definitely something you want to avoid.
What does a timing belt replacement cost?
Timing belt replacement takes quite a lot of time and labour which means it can be costly. And the cost varies according to vehicle type, age and many more factors – the best way to get a guide on the cost for a timing belt replacement is to give us a call at Blackwood Dyno Tune & Service on 08 8370 3450, to talk about your vehicle.
Related articles
Article
Need a pre purchase vehicle inspection?
Don't let what should ideally be an enjoyable and worthwhile experience such as the purchase of a new vehicle, leave a sour taste in your mouth when you realise you've bought a lemon. Get a Pre-Purchase Vehicle Inspection from Blackwood Dyno Tune & Service before you commit to buying...
Read more
Article
Suspension, Steering & Shock Absorbers
Have the team of specialists at Blackwood Dyno Tune & Service inspect your suspension and shock absorbers regularly to keep in full control of your car at all times...
Read more