1987 toyota camry 4cyl timing belt/water pump replacement.

[canadianbiz]

My '87 Toyota Camry has been a good runner and in not bad shape. I noticed the water pump was going, grinding when you first start in the AM and leaking alittle. With the help of a back yard mechanic and 5 hours later, fixed completely and changed the timing belt at the same time. That is some job and local shops want about $450 to do this job.
We used a Chilton Book for reference. Had to remove the alternator, power steering pump and passenger side motor mount. It was not easy.
I also got the new parts at a discount. Repair shops are a Rip Off. I saved approximately $30 on the timing belt belt and $40 on the pump. Now I know how much markup they put on parts. Its absolutely ridiculous the money they want. Problem solved for $200
I searched all over the net, including this forum for any information about this job with no success. My advice to anyone who needs this done, get a Chilton book or any repair manual. Find a back yard mechanic (A good one that is) and do it for less than half the price of an automotive repair shop. Good Luck!

[RIP]

Yup - I own 2 Camrys - I've changed 3 timing belts and never paid more than 18 bucks for a belt. I think I've saved around 6-700 bucks. Life is grand!

[smarisetty]

I paid a mechanic $150 in the SF bay area. I did most of the work, but had that guy double check the timing setting. Next time around, I won't need his help anymore. I know more now, got intimidated with timing settings, but was not that difficult.

I paid $40 for water pump and 30 for belt. Overall, it costed me $230 vs. $800 (dealer). I could have paid the mechanic say half the money, but this guy stayed with me for 4 hours in the warm-sun.

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