2001 193k flexplate problem or do 5 speed swap??

[4runnerfiend]

Just got in there and visually inspected the flexplate. I couldn't see anything that looked like it was cracked. I turned the engine over several times.. got in every angle that I could and I just don't see any cracks..

Started my engine up and right off the bat it was making the same signature noise.

really not sure what to do here Any suggestions on doing a more definitive inspection?

 

[gamefreakgc]

Just got in there and visually inspected the flexplate. I couldn't see anything that looked like it was cracked. I turned the engine over several times.. got in every angle that I could and I just don't see any cracks..

Started my engine up and right off the bat it was making the same signature noise.

really not sure what to do here Any suggestions on doing a more definitive inspection?

If it cracks, it normally starts way up at the center. With the inspection plate off there was only one angle I could see that far up. I ended up checking twice on mine since I realized that I was looking in the wrong area for the cracks.

 

[4runnerfiend]

If it cracks, it normally starts way up at the center. With the inspection plate off there was only one angle I could see that far up. I ended up checking twice on mine since I realized that I was looking in the wrong area for the cracks.

I got in there pretty good. I was able to see up pretty far on the right side (passenger side) and could see where the center of the plate has the lip.. for the center bolt.

was thinking of getting a Borescope.

https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B01MYTHWK4/ref=ox_sc_act_title_1?smid=AACQAJ816SDFM&psc=1

but..

It makes the signature noise and it's definitely coming from either the lower part of the motor or the transmission. in the rear, so If there is nothing else that could be making the noise. Then by deductive reasoning it would be the flexplate

 

[wettRunner]

I just had a shop charge $500 labor for a flexplate swap.
Definitely go OEM with parts. My total was about $800 parts and labor.

I'd do it myself, but a lack of a second car made me fork out the cash...

As for a manual swap, i'd only do it if you were seriously considering it prior to the failed flexplate.

Sorry to hear about your flexplate though.

 

[anniesball72]

5 speed swap

So guys not sure what to do! Looking for some input/Help from the Toyota ppl. Even in the Pittsburgh area. So here’s the run down. Well it looks like I got a messed up flexplate making some weird noises. So what to do 5 speed swap which on a 2001 not to easy since Of the multimode 4wd from what I read on here. . I have a access to a full complete running 97 5speed 4runner should I swap the parts and just do it or fix with new flexplate and have a auto again. This not my DD driver. It’s my Weekend rid and trail rig etc.
Rocking Radflo coilovers, 285/75/16 MT ,Aussie rear locker, tundra brake upgrade, hidden 9.5k winch in big bumper, 193k

I had the same problem with my 02. I went for the 5 speed swap. It really was not hard at all. The only fabrication was to shorten my front drive shaft a little. Everything else was bolt in. I did not swap my wire harness either. I just jumpered it at the A/T connector. If you want to get rid of the Check Engine you will have to get an 2003 or 2004 Tacoma ECM. These are the only 2 years they have the same throttle body as ours.
Mulit Mode still works but you will loose the Atrac when you swap ECM's as the Tacomas did not come with that.

 

[Moosenuckle92]

I had the same problem with my 02. I went for the 5 speed swap. It really was not hard at all. The only fabrication was to shorten my front drive shaft a little. Everything else was bolt in. I did not swap my wire harness either. I just jumpered it at the A/T connector. If you want to get rid of the Check Engine you will have to get an 2003 or 2004 Tacoma ECM. These are the only 2 years they have the same throttle body as ours.
Mulit Mode still works but you will loose the Atrac when you swap ECM's as the Tacomas did not come with that.

I can get a whole 4runner 97 5 speed for way less then a flexplate . And I got a 03 ecm Tacoma 3.4l from my buddies junkyard. So will a 03 Tacoma transfer work? Any one!! anniesball thanks I like 5 speed over the auto plus way easier to work on!

 

[anniesball72]

I can get a whole 4runner 97 5 speed for way less then a flexplate . And I got a 03 ecm Tacoma 3.4l from my buddies junkyard. So will a 03 Tacoma transfer work? Any one!! anniesball thanks I like 5 speed over the auto plus way easier to work on!

The multi mode transfer case you have will work or you can switch to a j style or push bottom transfer case.