Answer
Sep 24, 2025 - 05:40 PM
For a 1999 RAV4 with the 2.0L 3S-FE, here’s the basic rundown on installing the timing belt back on correctly:
- Line up your marks first – rotate the crank until the timing mark on the crank pulley lines up at 0° on the timing cover, and make sure the cam gear mark is lined up with the notch on the head (should be at about 12 o’clock). Both cam and crank need to be on TDC for cylinder #1.
- Slip the belt on – start at the crankshaft sprocket, then wrap it over the idler pulley, up around the camshaft sprocket, then across the top to the tensioner side. Keep the belt tight on the non-tensioner side while you’re routing it.
- Set the tensioner – the 3S-FE uses a spring-loaded tensioner. Make sure it’s compressed and pinned before you put the belt on, then once it’s in place, pull the pin to let the tensioner push against the belt.
- Double-check your marks – rotate the crank by hand two full turns clockwise, then re-check that both the cam and crank timing marks still line up. If they’re off, you’ll need to reset it.
- Button it up – once the marks check out, reinstall the covers, crank pulley, and re-torque everything to spec.
That’s the general way to get it timed correctly. If you want the full torque specs, diagrams, and detailed step-by-step straight from Toyota, you’ll find it in the 1996-2000 Toyota RAV4 (XA10) Service & Repair Manual. Very recommended to grab one if you want to be sure it's done properly.
