Repair Manual - Haynes vs Chilton

[GG Beast]

Which is better? Haynes seems to have better overall reviews and is cheaper (via Amazon), however, I'd like to know what you think. I like things that are picture heavy and easy to follow. I don't plan on doing much of my own work, but I'd like to know and understand what is being done when I do get service. Thanks all!

 

[Perrone]

If you just want to learn then the pictures might not be as important, but I love having big semi-clear pictures to look at when I'm laying under a car

 

[K.C.]

I've only had experience with Helms

Helm Inc
www.helminc.com

I've seen Haynes & Chilton and they look kool too.

 

[brian2sun]

I'm not a big fan of either of them. The thing about those is, the book for my '97 4runner is also for the Taco, T-100, 3.4L, 3.0L, and 2.7L. It seems like I never get to see a pic of my truck or my engine when I'm looking for something. If I'm trying to test a sensor, they rarely show mine or list the differences of the unit or how to remove it, test it, etc.. It can get frustrating. The Toyota FSMs are a lot better and more in-depth. Not too many pics usually, but lots of diagrams (which I like better than b&w pics anyways):
Toyota Tacoma/ 4Runner/ Tundra/ FJ Cruiser Factory Service Manual Page

 

[004Gunner]

I'm not a big fan of either of them. The thing about those is, the book for my '97 4runner is also for the Taco, T-100, 3.4L, 3.0L, and 2.7L. It seems like I never get to see a pic of my truck or my engine when I'm looking for something. If I'm trying to test a sensor, they rarely show mine or list the differences of the unit or how to remove it, test it, etc.. It can get frustrating. The Toyota FSMs are a lot better and more in-depth. Not too many pics usually, but lots of diagrams (which I like better than b&w pics anyways):
Toyota Tacoma/ 4Runner/ Tundra/ FJ Cruiser Factory Service Manual Page

I don't care for them either. I have a Chilton for my '00 which is to say I also have a manual for every other truck or truck based SUV made by Toyota within +/- 5 years. It's ok as a guide but I've found much better tutorials online, usually linked from this site.

The FSM is worth the money but it does have the occasional mistake in there. Just in case you see something that isn't right, don't blindly follow the manual. If you happen to find a printed FSM, I recommend you snatch it up.