Should I just buy a cheap manual, or similar?

[ShooterMcGavin]

I think it's Chilton's, or something similar, that they sell at Autozone-type stores. I have lots of work that is needed on my truck. The info at this site and other places online is excellent!!! However, I don't like being in the middle of a dirty job and using my grubby fingers on my computer. I need to get this stuff done and maybe having a book will let me have all the specs at hand so I can get it going. I really need to stop putting this off!

What method do you use for finding specs and procedures, while working under a dirty vehicle??


P.S. Work that I need to get done...
all fluids changed, starting with diffs and tranny
lube drivetrain
TB, WP
valve cover gaskets
accessory belts
parking brake (connect it and then fix whatever is wrong)
LBJs
TREs
fuel filter
steering rack boots
etc., etc., ... etc.

 

[gmv4k]

I have one if you want it, assuming I can find it. Just pay for shipping.

To be honest I've never even looked at it.

The one time I needed detailed instructions I just printed out the pages I needed.

 

[Doc2012]

I can e-mail you the FSM, then you can print it out at work......

 

[3rzrunner]

I can e-mail you the FSM, then you can print it out at work......

PM'd

 

[1blink]

i use a cheap laptop in the garage

 

[TheDurk]

Two pieces of bad news.

1. Both the Haynes and the Chilton manuals are pretty much crap. Too many models and too many years. It gives you some idea but the details are just not there. I have both and I never touch them.

2. The digital copy of the FSM that is out there is a 2002. That means auto trans and V6 only. No info on your 5-speed or your 3RZ-FE engine that did not exist in 2002. It is useful for other stuff like A/C, brakes (although the booster is different) and steering/suspension.

There is really no substitute for both volumes of the FSM and the EWD for your year. $150 or so for a used copy on e-Bay. Or get a one day license to TIS for $20 or whatever and spend the day downloading everything (except the V6 and slushbox stuff). Nothing else comes close.

The books do get greasy. You can tell the big jobs I've done by looking at it. Front and rear brakes, clutch, timing belt, shocks, etc. I also have a loose-leaf full of print-outs from this site and others. I have book-marked every good DIY I have seen since 2006 and I print them out when I need them.

For the 2002 FSM and EWD, you can access them here...for the time being:

http://tacoma.site40.net/4Runner_96-02_Repair&Wiring/contents.htm

 

[drdolittlerwc]

I can e-mail you the FSM, then you can print it out at work......

PM'd

 

[Brique]

I have one and found that the details were missing and the pictures were crappy compared to the write ups and videos to be found here. Mine sits on the shelf unused.