Very loud engine ticking (valves??), especially in cold weather.

[Sashamil]

Hi everybody,

I own a 2000 SR5 V6, and last winter there was a very loud ticking noise coming out my engine. It was as an diesel engine is under my hood, especially at warm up, it was like somebody had hammer against sheet of metal. Now that its warmer outside i dont hear the same noise, but i did notice some oily spots on side of the heads. I believe its valves, and i am looking if somebody can confirm this for me. I like fixing myself, but this looks like a big job, and i need to get my facts straight before i dive into this one.
What do you usually replace when valves are concerned?

Did anybody replace valves or adjust them, and is there a good write up somewhere. I cant seem to find it.
If anybody can shed some light here that would be awesome and appreciated!

Thanks a bunch

 

[Charlee78]

Adjusting valves on 3.4L is real PITA !!!

there are small spacers between the cam and the valves that are inserted in a part called "buckets". Those spacers all have different thickness. you would need to remove your intake to get access to your valve covers and then measure each spacer and the "loose" you have and then order new ones at the nearest dealer.

To add a little more there is a tool you would need to compress the valve spring to be able to remove the spacer. Of course, this tool is only available at the dealer and take from 1 to 3 weeks to arrive.

I would just pay to get them adjusted at the dealer if I where you...

 

[Charlee78]

Oh, everything must be done when the engine is hot!!!
Believe me, doing all valves fast enough is something... even for Toyota specialist !!

 

[miniracer]

The valves need to be checked cold on these, not hot. The only Toyota engines I can remember needing checked were the old screw and locknut adjusters.

 

[Charlee78]

Thanks for correcting me, they effetctively need to be adjusted when cold... ... meaning there is a couple of 4runners out there running with valves not adjusted right... :biggrin2: never too late to learn someting.

i would still go to dealer ship to make this...