Recent content by jdc62

What I found worked best was to use an empty one-quart oil container. I found I could wedge one under the nipple and the radiator hose below would push it up against the filter assembly so you won't have to hold it.

I’ve personally changed my oil and filter several times and 6.6 quarts has brought the level up to the full line each time. One question I have is was the filter changed? I believe if you’re only changing the oil 6.0 quarts will bring it to full.

Here's a link to maintenance information for the 5th gen 4Runner. It includes torque specs. Both are 27 lb-ft. DIY maintenance quick reference

Toyota recommends just a drain and refill at 100k and then every 50k after that using the Toyota Super Long Life coolant. Toyota SLL coolant is a 50/50 mix. The recommended approach is draining the radiator and block (use the block drains on either side per the above link). Some people use the...

Is this still available?

I recently had a similar issue on my 2008 4Runner with 140k. The problem was fixed when I replaced the front sway bar end links and bushings (went with poly bushings). It completely eliminated the constant rattling over bumps. Replacing the links improved the rattling and the new bushings ended...

Head gasket leaks are very rare for these engines, especially post 2005 models. It’s likely the radiator. Look for crusty, red residue toward the bottom. I have a 2008 and replaced mine summer of 2017 at 130k. I’ve seen others on the blog with the same issue around this age. Very easy job...

I disagree with some of the earlier posts. There’s really not very much grease. The metal bands can loosen over time. The inner band on my left half axle became loose and it began leaking grease. I replaced with a new band using a joint banding tool and it has been dry for over a year. The band...

It’s not clear that the boots on either are torn. There’s really not very much grease on either. The metal bands can loosen over time. The inner band on my left half axle became loose and it began leaking grease. I replaced with a new band using a joint banding tool and it has been dry for over...

What you're describing sounds like the same issue I had last fall. It turned out to be a failing Damper (or Mode) servo. It's the servo that controls the door that directs the vents to defrost. I was able to replace mine and it solved the problem. There are other servos on the HVAC box but...

I had a similar problem a couple of years ago. I had the tires balance and rotated, changed the power steering fluid and even had the alignment and front suspension checked out by a dealer. Nothing helped and the technician found no issues. I finally checked the front brakes and found that a...

Since the transmission cooler is part of the radiator they likely lost some transmission fluid during the radiator replacement. If they didn’t do a fluid check and add the level may be low. I don’t believe the level has to be off much for this particular transmission’s performance to be...

Had a similar issue with my driver side CV joint this past summer. I removed the old band and replaced with a new one using this tool. https://www.amazon.com/OTC-4623-Joint-Banding-Cutter/dp/B00063XX5U You might be able to find one at an auto parts store. The tool allows you to tighten...

Are these wheels still available?

I performed this repair a few weekends ago. It wasn’t easy but doable. You’ll need to remove the glove box and as well as the assembly for the upper storage compartment to get access. The latter is held in place by 2 upper and 2 lower screws. You will also need to drop the bottom panel which is...