i checked my timing after i put on the new belt. the timing mark shakes about 1-2* off. so when i set it to 10*, it appears to be jumping between 9*-11*. is this a sign of a lose belt? btw, the engine is original with 234k miles. i've heard it's suppose to hold steady but then again i heard it may do this due to it being a high mileage.

 

You may also have some slop in your ditributor or cam gears causing the jump (easy to check).
Yes, it should be pretty steady if all is well......should not affect operation too much.

 

The slop you're encountering is typical. I wouldn't worry about it at all. If you're worried about it you can go buy some DOA racing cams and a new distributor!! Actually, just buy the DOA racing cams anyways.

 

MTL_4runner, how do i check for slop in the distribor or cam?

miket223, i would love to drop more money into the 3.slow but it's doesn't cost worthy. i'm thinking of swapping in a 3.4 or 5.7 when this motor dies. but i'm figure that won't happen for another 50-60k miles if i can get it to running smooth.

 

It is as simple as pulling off the ditributor cap and using the rotor to try and move it back and forth. You really should not be able to move it any noticeable amount but when worn you will see some movement.

If there is wear then it will be impossible to tell if it is the cam or distributor gear without pulling it. That will at least give you an idea where to look and if you want to repair it or just live with it.