OTS, I have always done all the work on my Accord, but I need some info for changing the timing-belt on my Toyota AVALON (I have done all work on the Avalon since it was new). Info would be the same for the V6 CAMRY and LEXUS.

I have reviewed my Haynes manual, I do not have a factory Toyota Avalon manual, they are extremely expensive $$$$. I have not been able to find this info anywhere, so please help if you work on Japanese cars.

The manual has the typical directions, all meshed together, for the belt/camgears/timing shafts R/R. It is NOT clear if the #2 belt casing (the bottom one covering the crankshaft) has to be removed to change the belt. It is obvious the top one (#1) cover has to be removed, but can the belt be R/R without pulling the bottom (#2) cover?

The reason I ask is I need a special ($$$$) tool to pull the crank-bolt. So it would be nice to know if I need that tool, or if I don't have to pull the bottom cover at all.

Info from an experience Japanese tech would be appreciated. I have been working on cars 30+ years, and the Avalon maintenance since new. The procedure, as is the case for some in the Haynes manual, is not clear at all for this point, too many procedures are "lumped" together. THANKS- Wrenchy