Timing belt and AC belt Options

[sn0wfr0g]

Hey all-

I am going to be doing my timing and AC belts most likely this weekend. I am not sure that I need to, however I bought my ride with 119k miles on it and no service records. Everything I have heard is that if a timing belt goes on a 5S-FE it is a travesty.

SO- That in mind, I plan to just go ahead and change it.

What I am wondering is what all should I consider before getting started. I am pretty sure that none of the dealership parts departments are open on Sunday, and have short hours on Saturday. Has anyone here ever done their own timing? What all is involved? Are there any other parts besides the two actual belts I should have ready?

Any input would be greatly appreciated.

This post has been edited by sn0wfr0g: Mar 23, 2006 - 8:33 AM

[sn0wfr0g]

No advice?

[celicamike]

I just changed the belts on my 7A-FE engine, including the timing belt two months ago. Then just last week, I was driving home and my timing belt broke! Anyway I got it replaced for free and there was no engine damage. I think I recall reading in my chilton manual that both the 7A-FE and 5S-FE are both non interference engines, which means the valves won't get damaged if the timing belt breaks. I know first hand that this is true for the 7A-FE, but you might want to double check for your engine. As far as changing the belt yourself, it would require a lot of work as well as a repare manual and a good understanding of engine timing. I do a lot of work on my car myself, but I had the dealership do my belts because I didn't want to mess up the timing.

This post has been edited by celicamike: Mar 23, 2006 - 1:42 PM