Is it true I need to change the timing belt more frequently after 60K miles. This s the only vehicle I have ever owned I heard this story before. Is it because of the oil gelling problem that has been reported with this engine and Toyota warranteed these engines for 100K. Are they just building an insurance fund?

On all vehicles with a timing belt, 60,000miles (or 100,000km) is the normal interval for changing a timing belt.

There is safety buffer built into that number too, so you could even stretch it further, but you should "start thinking" about changing it at 60K.

I have heard that too. I think the owner's manual has a listing of scheduled maintenance, doesn't it?

Actually the toyota owners manual for Avalon calls for timing belt change at 60,000 miles and this is a non-interference engine so if it does break it will not damage the head or piston. Good Luck