timing belt

93 camry SE 90k. got two month ago. The dealer says the pre-owner has changed the timing belt. Last week when I changed the radiator I asked the machanic to check. He told me it did not look like new timing belt because the outside belt (beside engine) is still from Toyota. Generally when people change the timing belt, wafer pump, they will also change that belt. It will be costly if I ask him to open the engine to check. So I am asking is there any way I can know the timong belt is new or old? I talked to dealer and they insist it is a new timing belt.

Thanks so much!

There is no way to actually determine if that belt is actually new. Even if they remove the necessary timing belt covers to visually inspect the belt, they will all look good, since they are generally clean as they are protected from the elements by those covers. The only exception would be a frayed belt that is visually frayed. It is possible that whoever owned it had the belt replaced by a dealer or someone else who replaced the outer belts too, with genuine Toyota belts. Dealers usually push for replacement of the outer belts at the same time the timing belt is being done. It means a bit more money for parts in their pocket and it is usually a good investment for the owner who doesn't do their own work since there is no additional labor cost involved here. Did you receive any paperwork form the previous owner showing when and where the timing belt was replaced? Are you still in touch with the owner? Perhaps you can call that person and ask them if they still have the paperwork or remember where they had the work done. If they don't have the paperwork but do remember the name of the place that did the work, you could then call them and ask if they have a record of it and if they can provide you with a copy of the work for your records. Many places would be happy to do this in hopes that they will then receive more work from you as the new owner.

Mike

Thanks Mike! I think that may be the only way I can do.

You're welcome.

Mike

If you can't figure it out, all is not lost. Even if the belt breaks, it won't take your engine with it. You will just be stranded and need a tow.

If you can't figure it out, all is not lost. Even if the belt breaks, it won't take your engine with it. You will just be stranded and need a tow.

I was under the impression that if the timing belt broke, the pistons would do damage to the extended valves. Please correct me if I'm wrong.

In some engines they will. Not in this engine.

http://www.gates.com/brochure.cfm?brochure=981&location_id=524

thanks let me know that!