1996 Timing belt replacement

[jmell44]

Hi folks,

I'm relatively new here (less than a year) and this is my first post. I've got a '96 Avalon XL with 150,000 miles on it and the timing belt was replaced by the previous owner at 58,000 (I bought it at 81K) so I think it's probably overdue. I'm not too trusting of a soul when it comes to having this type of work done so I'd like to get as much advice as possible.
Let me list the work I've decided to do and then hopefully get some feedback:
1. Timing belt (I was thinking of Beck/Arnley)
Tensioner?
2. Water pump (again B/A)
Thermostat?
Hoses?
3. Spark plugs (Bosch Iridium)
4. Coolant flush
Insist on the orange?
5. Brake fluid replacement (any brands?)

I was going to purchase all the parts and fluids and take them to the mechanic (which he said was fine).

For labor what would be a fair price? (So. Cal. area)

Any other preventive maintenance suggestions?

Thanks, Jeff

[mustang67408]

Originally Posted by jmell44

Hi folks,

I'm relatively new here (less than a year) and this is my first post. I've got a '96 Avalon XL with 150,000 miles on it and the timing belt was replaced by the previous owner at 58,000 (I bought it at 81K) so I think it's probably overdue. I'm not too trusting of a soul when it comes to having this type of work done so I'd like to get as much advice as possible.
Let me list the work I've decided to do and then hopefully get some feedback:
1. Timing belt (I was thinking of Beck/Arnley) (TOYOTA REMAN)
Tensioner? (TOYOTA)
2. Water pump (again B/A)(TOYOTA)
Thermostat? (TOYOTA)
Hoses? (TOYOTA)
3. Spark plugs (Bosch Iridium)(ABSOLUTELY NOT)
4. Coolant flush (YES)
Insist on the orange? (ABSOLUTLEY NOT)
5. Brake fluid replacement (any brands?)(DOT4/5)

I was going to purchase all the parts and fluids and take them to the mechanic (which he said was fine).

For labor what would be a fair price? (So. Cal. area) (4.5hrs labor)

Any other preventive maintenance suggestions?

Thanks, Jeff

Why not use the factory Parts, sometimes they can be as inexpensive as the aftermarket ones.
Over the years i have found Bosch plugs do not work well in toyotas. Your vehicle should ahve PLATINUM plugs not iridium. There is a difference in how they burn and heat ranges. Use the TOYOTA PLTM plugs.
The orange coolant has been known to turn into a gel like substance when mixed with the factory red coolant.You'll never get all the old coolant out unless you drain the block too and then you might not get all of it.
I would recommend the toyota red coolant, it has rust inhibitors and a stop leak additive built into it.
PM sent

[jmell44]

Thanks for your input. Are there better places to purchase factory parts other than the dealer?
Also, I've read about replacing the idler pulleys along with the tensioner; would you recommend that?

[mustang67408]

Originally Posted by jmell44

Thanks for your input. Are there better places to purchase factory parts other than the dealer?
Also, I've read about replacing the idler pulleys along with the tensioner; would you recommend that?

I only use dealer parts. I do not know about other Factory parts sources. I have heard there are , but can not point you in the right drection.

The tensioner and idler are a good idea. Your there, and there should be no extra labor, so why not. Thats how i look at it.