General Performance

[imanabsolutezer]

I just picked up my '00 4unner limited from a dealership. I have no idea about the history other than carfax. It runs well but I have a feeling it could run a little better. As I am relatively new to the truck/DIY scene, I also have no money to waste getting it check out:

What are some things I can check to see if they need replaced?

Where would I notice the difference?

I search all these issues before hand, but I need something a little more consolidated/straightforward.

Thanks,
-W

 

[b.abe825]

Well, older members probably have better expertise than I do. But here are some things that I check/replace.

Engine air filter,
Fuel filter,
Fuel system cleaner,
Timing belt,
Spark plugs....

That's a beginning list of what I look for first for sort of tidying things up for a new vehicle to me.

 

[imanabsolutezer]

Thank you very much! I didn't think anyone was going to help me!

Could you elaborate on the the fuel system cleaner? I have never heard that before.

Also, What are things to look for to see if the timing belt needs to be replaced?

Thanks,
-W

 

[CJ3Flyr]

Thank you very much! I didn't think anyone was going to help me!

Could you elaborate on the the fuel system cleaner? I have never heard that before.

Also, What are things to look for to see if the timing belt needs to be replaced?

Thanks,
-W

Search sea-foam, that's a popular one to administer by putting it in the intake and fuel tank.

Usually when a t-belt is replaced they place a sticker under there, on the cover with the mileage.

b.abe825's list is a good one. I'd add to it a cleaning of the MAF. (Mass Air Flow sensor) A good throttle-body cleaning never hurts either. I'd also make sure the axle, t-case, transmission, brake and radiator fluid is fairly fresh. All of those are DIY items and may free up an extra horse or two. They will definitely help to keep you out of expensive repairs.

 

[fourwd1]

Flush every fluid, diff, tranny, t-case, brakes, rad coolant, PS fluid.
Then a complete tune-up.
It'll be like starting with a whole new truck.

 

[imanabsolutezer]

Thanks guys, I now have a pretty good list to start with!

-W

 

[imanabsolutezer]

Search sea-foam, that's a popular one to administer by putting it in the intake and fuel tank.

Usually when a t-belt is replaced they place a sticker under there, on the cover with the mileage.

b.abe825's list is a good one. I'd add to it a cleaning of the MAF. (Mass Air Flow sensor) A good throttle-body cleaning never hurts either. I'd also make sure the axle, t-case, transmission, brake and radiator fluid is fairly fresh. All of those are DIY items and may free up an extra horse or two. They will definitely help to keep you out of expensive repairs.

Where about should I look for that sticker quoting the timing belt mileage?

Also any suggestions on a throttle body cleaner?

Thanks,
-W

 

[Uneek]

Where about should I look for that sticker quoting the timing belt mileage?

Also any suggestions on a throttle body cleaner?

Thanks,
-W

The timing belt from Toyota dealerships will come with a sticker label to write in the date and mileage that's about 1"x4" roughly and a protective clear film to apply over the label. It's suppose to go on the timing belt cover, but check under the hood or radiator support. Some times the mechanic gets creative with it's location. :

CRC and Gunk comes to mind for the cleaners.

 

[imanabsolutezer]

Thanks I'll check it out.
-W