Timing belt vs. chain

Bought a used 1998 2.4L and from my understanding it has a timing chain. I'm new to cars with a timing chain, but it sounds like you don't have to worry about the timing chain as much as you do with a timing belt. After reading some threads, it sounds like new generation tacomas come with timing belts. Why is it that toyota went with a belt in the newer models when they seem to be higher maintenance?

 

I honestly couldn't tell you why they switched....

If I had to guess - Timing belts are quieter and they don't stretch as much. Chains can stretch and get sloppy/noisy. When they stretch - that causes more wear and tear on the sprockets they ride on (machine term).

I'm sure other people will add to this.

 

I thought that they went back to chains on many vehicles. I know that my '03 corolla has a timing chain where as previous generation(s) had a belt.
I thought the same thing was true for the trucks; up through a certain year had a chain, then they switched to a belt, and then back to a chain. I think the chain was meant to last a lot longer than the belt but I might be wrong. My '91 had a chain and was due to be changed when I sold it a couple of months ago after 249K.
I don't recall a timing belt being mentioned in the owner's manual at any service interval?

Does anyone know which has which?

 

Thank god they quit using the belts on the new Tacoma's. Years ago parts and labor was about $300 for a timing belt job. Now, it's pushing $500. My wife's 98 4Runner with the 3.4L has the dreaded belt. Her vehicle currently has 156,000. Looks like I still have to deal with the cost on that vehicle.

 

For me it's chain all the way, I'll put up with the noise to have the " no hassle "

 

Toyota's timing chain technology has sure come a long way since the old 3rc motor in the late 60's but ultimately I think it comes down to cost to own maintenance cost for the owner. The estimated cost for maintenance for a 2008 v6 is roughly $2100.00 over 5 years with out the cost of a timing belt replacement.