06 Highlander V6 Timing Belt Change: Special Tools?

I've read just about all of the resources I can find on replacing the timing belt as a DIY procedure (including those listed below). There doesn't seem to be agreement on one point: Do I need any "special" tools (e.g. the Toyota camshaft tool or Snap On Equivalent that some reference)? What about pulley pullers? Any help on that one point would be greatly appreciated.

You Tube

You Tube

http://www.toyotanation.com/forum/sh...ht=timing+belt



http://www.toyotanation.com/forum/sh...ad.php?t=60927



http://www.toyotanation.com/forum/sh...d.php?t=337849

Reply 1 : 06 Highlander V6 Timing Belt Change: Special Tools?

Hi



I don't have specific answers, other than there are some great tips in AVConsult's post, which you obviously already know about.



But I do have a request... If you do this, can you *please* take some digital pics as you proceed? If you want any help with setting up Photobucket or how to attach pics to the post, PM me. (I'm sure you know, but just in case..)



This would be the Mother of All DIY write-ups, but I bet Traildust would really really appreciate it if you could create one...



My experience with working on Toyota's in general is that you want the Male Torx bit i.e. the bolt has the recessed head, not the inverse. They would be a good investment for other jobs too. Is there a local car club in your area or anyone you know that is in one? You may be able to borrow the pully puller that way for a few "pops"...



Thanks!



EDIT: after watching that video, NOW I know why you were asking about the inverted Torx bits. Hope you don't break a stud like they did!

Reply 2 : 06 Highlander V6 Timing Belt Change: Special Tools?

All of those tools can be bought at Harbor Freight cheap especially with the abundant 20% off coupons that are in about every magazine and newspaper. The torx socket and the most difficult thing will be the Crankshaft bolt...it can really be stuck on there...a impact wrench or long breaker bar is a necessity...As for the rest, just normal tools... That video is excellent on utube. I am planning on doing my RX400h with the 3.3 engine in the near future and will take pictures...I know traildust loves pictures...as for the harmonic balancer removeal it can be done with a couple of bolts and maybe a piece of scrap metal with a gear puller...

Reply 3 : 06 Highlander V6 Timing Belt Change: Special Tools?

Quote:

Originally Posted by lenore ...I know traildust loves pictures...

TrailDust loves pictures. TrailDust likes DIYs with pictures even better since they're so helpful to those in need.

Reply 4 : 06 Highlander V6 Timing Belt Change: Special Tools?

The RX video is very accurate--the order is which he did his is a bit different than I did it, but the result was the same. I do like the idea of using clamps or similar to hold belt on the camshaft pulleys while threading around idlers, WP and crank. I used tools that you can buy at Sears or Harbor Freight. Have a pulley puller but did not need it.