Does anyone know how difficult it would be to change out a timing belt for a '98 camry xle v6? I have done some in the past. I do not have an impact tool but I know of some tricks to to get the crankshaft bolt out. Do I need special tools? A camshaft alignment tool, harmonic balance puller? Also, what parts besides a water pump and belts should be purchased? I would think a timing belt kit would suffice. Finally, how long would it take to change?

 

Toyota lists special tools but you can work around this.

If you set the cam/crank pulley timing BEFORE removing the belt you don't need to rotate the cams by hand. This would be No 1 cyl TDC at compression.

The belt uses a hydraulic tensioner that needs to be compressed before reinstalling, easy to do if you know how.

You should also check the belt idler pulleys for rough bearings and the various cam and crank seals for oil leakage.

The Autozone website has detailed info on doing this job. Suggest you download the info or have other documentation handy. The job is not difficult (perhaps time consuming the first time) but documentation will help make sure everything is in the right place.

 

Here it is explained on a gen.5 Camry. http://camrystuff.com/index.php?page...elt_Water_Pump

The engine is the same.

Regards
ralf