Questions and Answers

They Yanked His Crankshaft Q. I had my 1998 Toyota 4 Runner, 72,000 serviced at a Toyota dealer to change the timing and drive belt as a part of a major tune-up. It was then shipped to another state, where it broke down after a month of use, 2,000 miles (I don't off-road or fix my own cars).

The other Toyota dealer said that there is a pulley, which is bolted onto the crankshaft. That bolt was probably improperly torqued when it was last serviced to replace the timing and drive belts causing the pulley to be able to move free which damaged the crankshaft. The new dealer said that it would cost $4000.00 to repair because they have to replace the crankshaft.

I think that the old dealer should be held responsible if the damage was due to the improper repair. Does this sound right? Is it necessary to loosen the crank bolt to replace the drive and timing belts for this type of car?

Milton

A. I agree, if the other Toyota Dealer is willing to document the case of the failure, then you have the evidence you need to file for compensation. If you go and have the work done, KEEP ALL THE OLD PARTS!!! Don't let them throw them out.

They told you true, the bolt and pulley does have to be removed to replace the timing belt.