97 with the 3.4 repair info needed

[Jamie4Run]

I have a 97 model, 4x4. From what I have found, and had Toyota confirm, the head gasket needs to be replaced. Does anyone have a link to a write up, or manual that walks one through this process?

Thanks

 

[004Gunner]

Why do you need to replace it? The 3.0 had head gasket issues but I have never read anything regarding 3.4 head gaskets.

 

[pat161]

I've got a friend who runs a shop and works on lots of these motors and while rare he has done a few head gaskets. It generally comes from lack of maintenance as opposed to an inherent design flaw. Being a 97 the OP may have a ton of miles and a new HG is not unheard of. As for your write up I suspect you will have trouble finding one, the head gasket is a huge job to undertake, just look under there and you'll see that a lot of stuff needs to come out, and most either shop it out or assume its so rare a write up is not needed. If you are a competent mechanic get the FSM and go at it, if not let a pro handle this one.

 

[004Gunner]

:iagree: I remember there being a lot of left over bolts the last time I helped with a head gasket job. Usually you can figure out how bad you f*cked up a repair job by counting the amount of fasteners and brackets left over.

 

[JohnsD90]

:iagree: I remember there being a lot of left over bolts the last time I helped with a head gasket job. Usually you can figure out how bad you f*cked up a repair job by counting the amount of fasteners and brackets left over.

theres always plenty of extras after each job even if you were using the same nuts and bolts :biggrin2:. just think of it as conserving room in the engine compartment.

 

[02SE]

There was a recall on the headgaskets of '96 and early '97 5VZFE (3.4 V6) 4Runners. If you have an early build '97, it might (although not likely) still be eligible for their replacement under the recall.

My '97 4Runner was built in July of '97, and as a result didn't fall into the early build '97 4Runners with possible headgasket issues.

 

[Jamie4Run]

What manual works best for these 4 Runners? Chilton, or ?We just got this and is our first one. I have worked on engines some, but by no means am a pro at it... I know from previous tear downs, this is a huge job, are there any odd issues, or special tools needed? I have typical set of tools for people that work on cars sometimes. I did have a Supra one time, I think it had an odd tool to take off brake pads. I think it was a star patterned socket....

The build date, how does one find that out? Call dealer and give VIN or?

 

[004Gunner]

You can't beat the factory service manual. Chilton is nice for certain projects but it can get cluttered with info because they pack multiple models and years into one manual. The factory will also show specific wiring schematics which change every few years. Any interior work and body work imo requires the FSM, both Chilton and Haynes really lack on those aspects.

 

[Foureigner]

Repair Manual Sticky

check this sticky on repair manuals, which might be useful.

http://www.toyota-4runner.org/showthread.php?t=261

 

[daugherty83]

If you feel competent enough to undertake the job, grab a FSM, and then head to yotatech.com. You are bound to find some writeups/tips there.

 

[97-4xFunner]

As far as finding out the date of build for your Runner, just look in the driver side door jam. Date of Manufacture.

 

[kev301]

Here's a link to the repair manual for 3rd generation. Hope this help you.

http://www.ncttora.com/fsm/1996/SIL/fsm/repair.html

I have a 97 model, 4x4. From what I have found, and had Toyota confirm, the head gasket needs to be replaced. Does anyone have a link to a write up, or manual that walks one through this process?

Thanks