Any idea how much this should cost? My most trusted mechanic is quoting me upwards of $900, though I'm receiving quotes in the neighborhood of $600 from other mechanics...

Perhaps more importantly, how tricky is this repair? How careful should I be in choosing who performs it? My understanding is that the water pump is fairly straightforward but that the timing belt is more precarious. I could forego replacing the belt entirely (I only have a slightly leaky pump at the moment) though of course it seems both cost effective & wise to do them together... Timing belt will need attention at some point soon.

Would ideally love to do this myself but I'm under a mild time constraint & would hate to dig myself into a hole! Also I intend to be much pickier with antifreeze in the future... No silicates.

THANKS.

 

Some of the difference in price may well have to do with the quality, or lack thereof, of the replacement parts they plan to use. Ask questions..

I would not settle for less than all Japanese made parts and bearings. Some inferior chinese slave labor made parts kits might be got for less than $100

While high quality kits containing all Japanese made parts might well run near $300. Pays to shop around for sure.

 

Rockauto has well priced parts.

Belts: http://www.rockauto.com/en/catalog/t...rive,belt,8900
Timing kit with water-pump (The AISIN kit is as close to OEM as you're gonna get. Aisin makes the Toyota part): http://www.rockauto.com/en/catalog/t...nent+kit,16088
While you're at it, replace the thermostat: http://www.rockauto.com/en/catalog/t...hermostat,2200

Remove the radiator, it makes life easier and you can use an impact.

Good luck! Doing my 1990 4Runner with 3VZE now.

 

... Wrong thread.

 

Today or 23 months ago?

 

Today I thought I was in another thread I started the other day... At least it shows I did search.