JackLo

Thanks for the observation. Naturally, it was the Lexus dealer who suggested that it be replaced. To clarify, it is not defective yet, and therefore is not leaking (as far as can be detected now). But the dealer recommended that it be replaced given the mileage of the vehicle (i.e., 220K miles), since the time that you replace the timing belt would be the ideal time to do so. On the same note, I'm also going to be replacing the water pump more than likely, since it's never been replaced. You've got to think that this will go soon as well. For further clarification, I'm not doing the tear-out myself. It's a mechanic who is also a trustworthy friend. Even though he's a friend, it's still going to cost me something every time he goes in there and starts tearing it apart like lego blocks. Just as an aside, the original problem that prompted all this was a defective harmonic balancer, presumably damaged from excessive leaking oil over time from other areas.

I need to do some maintenance work to my 2000 GS300 that has 220K miles on it. This work includes changing out the timing belt, replacing the cam and crank seals (which are leaking), and a few other items. It was recommended to me that as long as I already had the timing belt out, I might as well also change out the VVTi (Variable Valve Timing chain/gear) because at its age, an internal seal could go that would leak oil all over the place. However, there appears to be a one-month (or greater) back order on this part due to the sole Japanese manufacturer having to had discard the last batch of parts due to a discovered defect. That is my understanding, at least. Does anyone have any solutions or workarounds? I don't believe that there is an after-market part available. I would hate to do all this work, and then have to tear everything out again in a year or so if it goes. And I don't really want to wait a month to change out the timing belt if it can be helped. Just for clarification, I'm not an expert mechanic, but I have a friend who is who would be assisting me. Also, I plan to keep this car for quite a while longer. Thanks for any insights any of you may have! Jack