Ive got an 05 4Runner with about 220K miles with the 4.7L and I was doing the intake manifold gasket, and valve cover gaskets about a month ago and the bolts holding the valve cover together all 4 actually on the bottom side sheared off, leaving just the thread part left (Very rusted and stuck in the hole. Could grab it or any sort so I took it to a shop and the guy tried bunch of different things including, welding a nut on it to just twist off (he said it didnt work, but I feel like thats a good way and best but I take him at his word.)
Guy said last resort is drill em out. Meaning he has to pull the engine up and out to be able to get a drill in there. and he said $350 for it all. I feel like thats a great price but if all the trouble to pull the engine out just for this.
I feel like its a case where while its out let me do these things before I put it back in. Timing Belt, gaskets, old hardware, etc. Or I was told the floating idea around about rebuilding it and making it "new" again.
I think me and a couple of buddies could tackle the task. Just looking for some other opinions. Great car, perfect for everything I use it for and looking to keep it in the long run.