Need Help! 99 4Runner timing belt/water pump

[toodzil]

I've got 47k miles/5speed/v6/4x4; I recently heard a rattle and the local Toyota folks indicated they thought it was the water pump. Was advised to change timing belt as repairs to water pump duplicated much of the labor. I realize the low miles don't justify changing the timing belt and wanted to know if I should just wait for the water pump to go....it's been 8 months now and the rattle remains but it's still working. Also, another toyota tech advised I change the camshaft/crank seals($$$!) while doing the timing belt.....need some help..thanks. PS I am also going to do the 60k check up at this time.

[Brian R.]

Unless they are sure it is the water pump, do nothing. There may be other sources of this noise and you will be paying money for nothing.

IMO

[toodzil]

Thanks Brian I think I'll let mechanical nature take it's course. Would there be any specific signs which would point to a problematic water pump prior to it's failure? Thanks again!

[Brian R.]

Many times they leak coolant from the shaft seal. Sometimes the shaft just locks up - bad for the timing belt.

The sound might be the tensioner/idler pulley.

[toodzil]

Brain, greatly appreciate your help.

[Brian R.]

Thinking about it some more, it's probably not in your best interest to let whatever it is fail. If it gets worse at some point, or if you get extra money, I would have it investigated. Don't let them assume it's the water pump. Make sure they check out everything carefully.

See if you can better locate the sound. A rattle may be coming from an accessory.