How much should I attempt on my own?

[billstark]

Hi all -

New to the forum (my first post). Please be gentle; it's my first time.

I have a '97 4WD Auto 6 Cyl w/the 5VZ-FE engine.

Noticed a loss of power when accelerating, and a significant "hesitation" when I'm coasting at 50mph and slowly start to add gas. I thought maybe it was tranny, 'cuz it sort of jerked (reminded me of when you're trying to pedal and change gears at the same time on a bicycle). If I punch the accelerator, it downshifts and does fine. When I get to about 3200 RPM, it starts to hesitate again.

I took it to two shops, both of which listed themselves as tranny specialists (along w/everything else). Not necessarily Toyota shops.

First guy says it's my Throttle Position Sensor. He said it *may* fix the problem. Says it "never opens or closes fully, and is really slow in transition." Wants $135 for that. Also recommends a tranny fluid flush (I agree) - $160 for that.

He also found the source of my radiator fluid leak = water pump. I'm also due for a timing belt. Wants $791 for pump, belt, tensioners, pulleys and bearings.

So, trying to be a good steward, I decide to get a 2nd opinion.

Yikes!

2nd guy says I need a tune-up. $525 for new plugs, wires and boots.

also says my catalytic converter is "coming apart - I found pieces of it in the exhaust" - $660 for that

He confirmed the water pump leak. His price for a water pump & belt is $589

He didn't say why, but quoted a fuel filter at $111

He found my dying battery (I knew this was coming, too) - $133

He also found my nasty tranny fluid - $162 for flush


So..... what do I want from you, sages of the best, and orginal SUV?

What do you think?

I got shop ramps, a creeper and the Chilton repair manual for Christmas. I have minimal skills but decent motivation - how much do you think I can/should tackle on my own? (I'm pretty sure I can do the battery - but what about the fuel filter? And getting to those plugs looks pretty tough).


Do you think I should fork over two grand and quit crying?

Sorry about the long post. I truly appreciate any insight you are willing to offer.

 

[TheBlueWave]

Man, $525 for a tune up? Just for plugs, wires, boots? Tell that guy to go to hell. He didn't even mention ignition timing (does the 5VZ-FE require that or is it computer controlled?)?
Anyway, bring it in for the tranny flush.
The battery is easy to do on your own. The plugs and wires are also easy to do, but check the wires with a multimeter (test the resistence, spec should be in the manual) before buying new ones. If they pass, its a good savings. New plugs probably never hurt, though. The Chilton's will cover the timing belt/water pump/etc. That's a large project for a novice mechanic to take on, and you won't be able to drive anywhere until its completely done. That being said, go through the Chilton's and make sure you have the required tools to complete the job before attempting it, then decide if the procedure will make sense to you. If you can't understand the procedure or don't have the tools, don't even think about it. Try to find a cheaper mechanic than guy #2 though (still can't get over $525 for a tuneup).
As far as the cat goes, I wouldn't worry about it unless you fail emissions testing, sounds like the dude is trying to pull one over your head.
There are more knowledgeable people on this forum and others than me, hopefully they chime in. In the meantime, good luck with the rig!

 

[billstark]

Thanks, BlueWave - appreciate the input.

I'm thinking I'll start w/the battery and fuel filter... of course, last night my engine light came on so now I'm not sure if I need to go back (or to a new shop) or not? Will that reset if I chg the plugs, etc. - or do they need to check for codes and then reset it w/a magical mechanics-only-this-is-how-I-pay-for-my-boat tool?

thanks again,
bill

 

[96dcmss]

Did you call your local toyota service department for a quote on the flush, tune-up, belts, ect? You will be surprised on how little, if any, you are saving by going to independent shops......and the dealer will be using OEM parts.

just my .02