1997 Lexus SC 400FACTORY OEM SERVICE PROCEDURE

Ignition System: Distributor: Removal

  1. Remove "V" bank cover. See Figure. To remove left distributor, go to step 4). To remove right distributor, disconnect Idle Air Control (IAC) valve air hoses from No. 3 timing belt cover. See Figure.
  2. Remove No. 3 timing belt cover. Remove drive belt idler pulley, if necessary. Disconnect right camshaft position sensor connector from ignition coil bracket. Remove No. 2 timing belt cover bolts. See Figure.
  3. Disconnect camshaft position sensor wire, wire grommet and wire clamp from No. 2 timing belt cover. Remove No. 2 timing belt cover and gaskets. Remove high tension wires from distributor cap. Remove distributor cap and rotor. Remove distributor housing. Camshaft position sensor can be removed at this time.
  4. To remove left distributor, disconnect EVAP hose clamp from No. 3 timing belt cover. See Figure. Remove No. 3 timing belt cover bolts. Remove coil wire grommet from No. 3 timing cover, and remove timing cover. Remove drive belt idler pulley, if necessary. Remove No. 2 timing belt cover bolts. Disconnect camshaft position sensor wire, wire grommet and wire clamp from No. 2 timing belt cover. Remove No. 2 timing belt cover and gaskets.
  5. Remove high tension wires from distributor cap. Remove distributor cap and rotor. Remove distributor housing. Camshaft position sensor can now be removed.
NOTE: Distributor housings are not interchangeable. No. 1 distributor housing is marked with an "L" indicating left side distributor. No. 2 distributor housing is marked with an "R" indicating right side distributor.
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When to See a Mechanic

Stop DIY work and contact a certified mechanic immediately if any of the following apply:

  • • You smell fuel, burning insulation, or see smoke.
  • • Brakes feel soft, pull hard to one side, or make grinding noises.
  • • The engine overheats, stalls repeatedly, or misfires under load.
  • • You are missing required tools, torque specs, or safe lifting equipment.
  • • You are not confident in the next step or safety outcome.

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