It is time to replace my timing belt.
I have a S/C 3.4 V6 5-speed.
Has anyone tackled this job by themselves?
If so, how difficult is it? Any write ups? (I saw the one for the 3.0 but figured the 3.4 would be different)

If I were to take it to the stealer...what price can I expect to pay?

Thanks in advance!
d

Here is a write-up on it. The toughest part is getting the crankpulley bolt off as well as the pulley itself. It helps to use one of these also. Since this is a somewhat extensive job a lot of people like to change the waterpump, t-stat and tensioner pulleys while they are doing the timing belt.

You will also need a torque wrench that goes to 240 ftlbs for the crank bolt as well as a pulley puller and someway to hold the crank from turning such as a strap or chain wrench.

There are ways to do it without the pulley puller and chain wrench but I wouldn't recommend them.

I have heard anywhere from $400-800 to replace the t-belt at the dealership.

I did mine on my 3.0 and if the 3.4 is at all similar I would suggest saving yourself the money and doing it yourself, the hardest part for me was breaking the crankshaft bolt, which for me on the 3.0 required me making my own tool out of a small piece of angle iron. I suggest purchasing a FSM (factory service manual) and taking it on yourself, I did it that way before I was a member of this forum with only my FSM, I do realize that these are two different engines but assuming that the process is similar, if I did it you will be just fine. Also if the water pump is tucked down there like it is on the 3.0 I would suggest replacing that as well depending on your milage. I am guessing that if you take it to the stealer you will be out something like 3-400$ maybe more? Good luck with whatever you do.
-rbrach

The crankshaft bolt is the easiest part if you know a trick.... <img src="/forums/images/graemlins/ignore.gif" alt="" />

Put your socket on a breaker bar with pipe entention (if needed). Make it so it is resting against the frame or ps box. Then just hit the starter. It's off in 30 sec max. I've done sooo many using this method. <img src="/forums/images/graemlins/smile.gif" alt="" />

I'm going to do the same job on my 99 4runner. I generally replace a bunch of extra stuff, and clean up stuff. So plan on a full day. <img src="/forums/images/graemlins/patriot.gif" alt="" />

Also... It's a great time to replace the front main seal... Good idea. <img src="/forums/images/graemlins/cheers.gif" alt="" />

MontyPower-
you are brilliant, i would have never thought of that in a million years, i will be sure to hit the starter next time!

Don't forget to disconnect the ignition if you use this method. I do attest that it works like a charm though. Another trick on a manual trans vehicle is to rest the wrench as suggested, leave the truck in gear with the parking brake off and give the truck a shove. Breaks loose the bolt and all is good.

Mike