I searched, and I looked, but couldnt find an answer to my question.

I have a 2003 TL-S with 127k miles... yea you read right. Timing belt was last done at around 50k-ish, since I got it at 54k. Started hearing this metallic grinding noise, which I first thought was my brakes, a few thousand miles ago. My buddy, who used to be a mech for Acura said it was my tensioner.


Now, heres my question. I was looking into doing this all myself, since money is an issue (isnt it for everyone nowadays?) and I dont want to take it to the dealer because they're the closest one and quoted me about 1100 for the whole kit n caboodle. What specific parts would I need to order to do the whole water pump/timing belt service?

 

You've had a 'metallic grinding noise' for 'a few thousand miles'? Did he actually open the hood and listen to it or just told you his best guess? Maybe there's another tensioner on the acc. belts that's bad.

 

Look at the timing belt threads. Parts are listed in there.

 

I would check the AC belt tensioner- its at the top of the engine area
mine made noise a lonnnng time before I finally replaced it
Buy a mechanics stethascope- $5, will sound like gravel if its bad bearings

Are you certain- with receipt- the timing belt was done at 50???- thats half of when its called for- and most wait till at least the due mileage!

If it turns out to be a timing belt tensioner- I remind everyone- replace all the parts you can on the timing belt-water pump job

You can't expect a bearing thats gone 100k+ to go another 100k miles- is that realistic?
to save $100 now... to spend 800 on labor to replace a relativly cheap BUT critical part- the belt tensioners and roller pullies~ later......

but--- get a stethascope at any parts store, and start listening to each moving rotating part you can find-

 

he opened up the hood and listened to it. it was intermittent though... he tried checking it out 3 times prior and it never made that noise... till the last time.


I did, and I found most of them, but as far as 02-03 specific parts. The list I found pertained to a 99, and when looking on Acura OEM Parts, didnt apply to my car. I'll double check though, to be on the safe side. I just want to make sure I have all the parts that apply to the 02-03 model and not go buying parts I dont need.

When I called my nearest Acura dealer, he punched in my VIN and he told me it was replaced. I'm not sure as to the mileage, but it was before 54k, since thats when I purchased the car. I'll have to check it out with that stethoscope.. Last thing I need is for the belt to go and there goes my engine...