i usually dont have a problem sending it to another auto shop, but with the montero due to the rare support it has in the US.. i just seem more to leaning to pay extra to have the dealer do the work. but when the time comes who knows.. im sure I will just go with one of my trusted local shops.

 

A timing belt is not something you want to screw up.

 

I would like to know why GL-5 gear lube in the transfer case is a no-no? My manual says to use it. What gives?

 

I did screw up a timing belt on my old 86 Stanza wagon. I got the belt part right but couldn't get the new idler to the proper tightness. The result was an early retirement for the Stanza....(sniff)

My vote is to find a good local mechanic that'll do it for a reasonable fee, unless you have the time, know-how & experience. Or can afford to send your car off to the pasture if the belt slips and your timing goes South....

 

I would do it myself, if not then I would go to a shop and stay clear of a dealer.

 

Folks,

In you're in the DFW area, Mitsu Main Dealer in Irving ,TX. TB special 'til the end of August. All in for $465 + tax.

I'll see you there with 160k on mine!

 

At 120k I had Cornerstone Mits in Wilmington MA do it for $450. Good guys....no problems after 25k miles...

 

Nothing wrong with a good indy shop, but they'll need to make or buy 3 tools, one to get the crank pulley off, one to get the cam sprocket off (if they are doing the front seals), and one to torque the tensioner.

I just finished mine with 130K on my 2002 LTD, the belt was in excellent shape and probably could have gone a lot longer....

Good luck.

 

Someone mentioned an inspection panel for checking the timing belt? Where do I find that and how do I access it? I've got a 2002 Limited with 145k miles. I've hot zero probs since buying it with 79k on it. It's def time for a timing belt and I am tight for money. Want to go the cheap route, but I understand the pushback about Monteros being a rare car that most mechanics have NO experience with. My biggest fear is that my local Mitsu dealership here in Colorado seems completely inept. It was a Dodge dealership that absorbed Mitsu. My experience with them thus far has been pretty sad. They know nothing.

Logan

 

You could do it for a lot less yourself. It's really not that hard.