landar Posted June 15, 2007 Share Posted June 15, 2007 I was talking with a friend at work who owns a 2003 Camry 4 cylinder with 90k miles. I asked him if he had considered changing the timing belt. He told me it does NOT have a belt but rather a chain and does not need regular replacement. I just about fell over! Dangit. I always thought timing belts were a substandard idea primarily because of the replacement interval. Now I learn that Toyota is using chains instead of belts. In fact, the new LS460 has a chain! I know, I know, chains are noisier....supposedly. However, a correctly engineered chain should not be a problem. This is in a Lexus LS460 ad: "The camshafts are of a new, hollow design and are now driven by a chain instead of a timing belt for improved reliability and reduced maintenance costs." You learn something new every day. Just thought I would pass this along. Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
anthonyiez Posted June 15, 2007 Share Posted June 15, 2007 chains are also heavier than belts. this is one of the reasons most mfgs used them for years. i'm sure that they are a lot lighter these days than the old chevy 350's of days gone by. anywhere they can save weight... as of 2002 the new 2.4 motor has a chain. the 3.3 still had a belt though. i'm pretty sure you'll see them phasing the belt out over the years. Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
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