Cam rotation with timing belt off?

2004 LEXUS RX 330

180,000 MILES • 3.3L • V6 • 4WD • AUTOMATIC

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I’m replacing the timing belt. When going to loosen rear cam pulley it snapped backward about a quarter rotation barely touching it. Snapped forward quarter rotation as well. I had the dot aligned on the front cam pulley before removing the belt. Could one of the valves or springs be broken or is this okay?

Nov 11, 2023 at 5:42 AM

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The 2004 Lexus RX 330 is equipped with a non-interference engine. This means that if the timing belt breaks, the pistons should not come into contact with the valves, significantly reducing the risk of major engine damage. Here are the instructions on how to replace the timing belt with torque specs. Check out the images (below). Please let us know what happens.

Images (Click to enlarge)

Nov 11, 2023 at 10:22 AM