the DOHC 3.5 engines didnt suffer belt failures so much as water pump failures. for whatever reason, the 3.5 DOHC absolutly eats water pumps.
the 3.5 SOHC does not.

 

I just aquired a 2002 Montero with 100K miles on it and 0 wrench marks on the motor, so I can only that assume the belt was factory.

Couldn't stand it, so I changed the timing belt and idlers last weekend. Took about 4 hours on my back patio. Old belt looked like it would have lasted another 100K, but now I feel better.

Couldn't get a water pump anywhere in Hicksville, Okiehoma so I plan on doing that after I buy the outragiously priced Oklahoma license plate. Then I will feel even better.

Monte is awesome by the way! Mileage sucks, but we don't care, it's fun to ride around again!

 

t&k: 4 hours heh? Thanks for the inspiration - I was thinking it would take the entire weekend. I will tackle the job soon. Got to order the parts.

As far as finding the parts - did you try mitsubishiparts.com? They are OEM and cheaper than the dealer. I have no affiliation but plan on ordering from them. They are a dealer and found they are about 20-40% cheaper than my dealer. When you place order, include the job you are doing and the parts guy will email back a few other things you should consider for the job. They are the ones that suggested water pump with timing belt. Seems like it was good advice and not just trying to sell me more parts.