Cylinder Head & Gasket DIY Procedure - Toyota 5VZ-FE - Part 1

This 6 part series walks through the very detailed procedure for diagnosing and replacing a cracked cylinder head and head gasket on a 1995 Toyota Tacoma with the 3.4 liter 5VZ-FE V6 engine.
This engine was widely used by Toyota from the mid 1990's through 2004 in the Tacoma, Tundra, T-100, 4Runner, and Land Cruiser. Therefore, this repair procedure should be common to all of those vehicles with the same engine.
Due to the detail presented in this video series, it is also a good reference for doing other repairs such as changing the antifreeze/coolant, timing belt, valve cover gaskets, camshafts, alternator, spark plugs, spark plug wires, ignition coil packs, vacuum hoses, exhaust manifolds, belts, hoses, cooling fan, and various intake gaskets.
Part 1 - Diagnosis & Initial Disassembly
• Cylinder Head & Gasket...
Part 2 - Intermediate Disassembly
• Cylinder Head & Gasket...
Part 3 - Final Disassembly
• Cylinder Head & Gasket...
Part 4 - Cylinder Head Removal, Inspection, & Replacement
• Cylinder Head & Gasket...
Part 5 - Initial Reassembly
• Cylinder Head & Gasket...
Part 6 - Final Reassembly & Wrap-up
• Cylinder Head & Gasket...
Here is the tool review for the OTC Universal Pulley Holder that was used in this video series to tighten the camshaft pulley bolts and to install the service bolt in the exhaust camshafts.
• OTC Universal Pulley H...
Here is the my total cost breakdown...
Parts:
$325.00 rebuilt cylinder head (www.ebay.com/s...)
$138.00 gasket set
$25.00 cylinder head bolts
$23.00 valve shims
$10.00 fuel injector electrical connector
$16.00 antifreeze
$537.00 Parts Total
Tools:
$54.00 OTC universal pulley holder
$80.00 factory service manual
$7.00 oil can
$7.00 blow gun nozzle
$20.00 torque angle gauge (skip this and just make a mark on the bolt heads with a silver Sharpie)
$76.00 machinist's steel straight edge
$34.00 valve adjusting tool
$278.00 Tools Total
$815.00 Grand Total
Show less
With the right tools and some patience, it really is not a very difficult job.

[@StephanMarcDubois]

I bought a 2001 Toyota Tacoma four years ago, with the 5VZFE engine, thinking it had a blown head gasket. The guy I bought it from realized it was way over his head and he quit after removing the drivers side cylinder head. I left it stored for nearly four years before I began work on it. I then realized myself it was way over my head too, so I scoured the internet looking for help and voila! I found your channel! I have to say it is the most detailed and well-put together video series on the net. They way you removed bolts and showed where they all came from and where they went back to, coupled with telling where all of the vacuum hoses, wiring clips and belts were supposed to be was way more than invaluable. I probably wouldn't be able to finish the job without this six series video presentation. My son came down three weeks ago and we began the reassembly of the engine. We didn't quite finish it then, but he came down again this past weekend (January 4, 5, 2020) and we finished it. It starts right up now with no water or fluid leaks, no vacuum leaks that I can tell and it purrs like a kitten. It does have a bit of a miss, but I'm sure that's old fuel, old plug wires and maybe a fuel filter. I'll sort all of that out. I just wanted to take the time to say "thank you", for putting together such a valuable and in-depth teaching video presentation. It made my life much easier and not one single step was wrong. Well done sir and thanks again! Steve D Texas

[@WorseThanChiggers]

Thanks, Steve, for the kind comments. I really appreciate. Success stories like yours make the production of videos like this totally worth it for me. And, what a great activity to share with your son. I've learned more practical knowledge from KZbin on countless subjects than I learned in six years of college. :) It's just one way that I like to give back. Nice work and keep us posted on your progress.

[@KmmBev]

Just wanted to say a belated thank you, my husband and I did this repair on our 2001 tacoma in 2018- we couldn't have done it without you! Our truck is still going strong at almost 313,000 miles😀

[@WorseThanChiggers]

Nice work and thanks for the kind comments. I really appreciate it. Thanks for sharing your experience.

[@eljjjaliskillo4453]

I'm going over 400k and still running super strong💪

[@jungleboyshd5996]

THANK YOU I LOVE YOU MAN. YOU ARE GODS GIFT. I’ve been following this series for 3 weeks, I’m 17 years old with my first truck, never touched an engine before and I followed your instructions and you taught me so much about engines. After pressure test, BOTH of my heads were cracked and I replaced my heads on my 99 Tacoma. This was such a headache and a learning experience, now I feel like someone can point at a part into a 1st gen Tacoma and I can tell them exactly what it is. Mechanics were trying to charge me 3,800 just for the head gasket and I only spent about 900 for parts, tools, and fluids. Seriously man, taking your time to do this and help people is so great and I can’t thank you enough. My engine runs better than before AND I finally fixed this misfire. You rock man!!!!!!!!

[@edysorto5093]

Same here bro im 18 and im going to give this a shot tomorrow

[@WorseThanChiggers]

Go for it and let us know how your experience compares.

[@Sanmiguelarkangel]

This honest man accepted that this is first time doing this that tells us anyone can do it his own repairs without been an expert mechanic...

[@scubbarookie]

Hey brother, your attention to detail is amazing. There many cool tricks around motor to bring you better resolve. Instead of removing that crazy and bothersome AC compressor; you can take a cool shortcut and use a wobbly extension and get underneath it. This something I learn from watching Faye from Pistons & Pixiedust... She is an amazing mechanic and believe it or not has a degree from Harvard University! She found her calling when her VW Rabbit needed to be repaired. She's one of a kind and probably the best teacher for automotive mechanics! Thank you for this detailed video coverage on this motor! 👍

[@Hunter406YT]

I know this video has been up for a while but I just found it. This is a LIFE SAVER!!! I’m doing head gaskets on an old t100 and I couldn’t find anything. I love the step by step instructions. Thank you so much!

[@WorseThanChiggers]

Thanks for the kind comments. I really appreciate it.

[@ChrisBotkins-er6nq]

I just wanted to comment and express my sincere gratitude and thanks for you putting this video series together. My wife and I just finished her head gasket fix on her 99 4Runner and we couldn’t have done it without this. This series not only gave us the step by step process but the confidence to even attempt it ourselves. Out of all the videos on swapping head gaskets out there this is by far the best. An fyi for anyone out there looking to do this: there are slight differences between the engines and model years. Ours is a 99 and we noticed several places where our particular engine didn’t match up with the one in the video. It threw us off at first but quickly realized his was a 95 and ours is 4 years newer.

[@WorseThanChiggers]

Thanks for those very kind comments. I really appreciate it! Congrats to you and your wife on a job well done.

[@cobjread]

Thank you so much for sharing this video series in all of the detail, and so well edited. When i started this project 4 weeks ago on my 98 4Runner, I was expecting to just replace the head gaskets. Turns out I had a very similar crack in my right cylinder head. Long story - short, i just got it back up and running this week, and it's doing great so far. I'm very grateful to you for sharing your skils, talents and time with me. Brent

[@WorseThanChiggers]

Thanks for the kind comments. I really appreciate it. You should be proud of yourself. That's a great accomplishment! Thanks for sharing your success story.

[@fdseoulsandiego6514]

I just watched the entire series and I must say this was one of the most enjoyable DYI shady tree repair video online. No nonsense BS talkative crap or over drawn info was presented. Also just enough attention to detail in the R&R to make any seasoned ASE certified master tech respect your shady tree skills. Great job Brother.

[@WorseThanChiggers]

Thanks for the kind comments. I really appreciate it.

[@heididengler8]

I’m posting under my wife’s account since I don’t have one. Jerry btw. I wanted to say that I can’t thank you enough for this video series! I work for the post office as a carrier and use a ‘98 Toyota T100 xtra cab (same engine). A few weeks back I noticed some issues and talked with a buddy who thought it was a blown head gasket (which was correct, cylinder 3). I’ve never tore an engine down that far but thanks to your videos I felt confident I could do this myself. 4 long days and I had her tore down, cleaned up, and rebuilt with all new seals. Gave her her first test run on my route today and I honestly think she’s running better than before. Our vehicles are our livelihood and this saved mine. Thank you so very much for doing this!

[@WorseThanChiggers]

Now that's a great success story! Thanks for sharing it and for the kind words. I really appreciate it.

[@ckhaira]

Thanks a lot for taking the time to film all this. I haven't had to do this job yet, but the video really helps me understand where a bunch of different things are around the 5vz

[@Zt3v3]

I LOVE buying cars and motorcycles from guys like you. It's getting harder to find people who care for their own equipment anymore though.

[@trailsharkmtb2622]

My dad and I bonded over this video and the tear down of my 4runner. You helped us a lot.

[@WorseThanChiggers]

Great father and son story!

[@hughr7273]

This looks like a very well done video series that I will need this winter. Thanks for putting this together.

[@tylerpearce2891]

I will also add that you are a very clean mechanic I just did the water pump on my suburban and even with a catch can under the truck I still flooded my garage with coolant

[@nickshaw6289]

Self proclaimed ‘amateur’ lol..so humble.incredible video mate. You’re a great speaker and teacher as well. Thank you for the video!

[@callmedragon5321]

Its the dunning-kruger effect.

[@ultimatejoe71617]

Great video. Also one of the very few I see even reference a service manual. So big kudos to you.

[@luisdominguez9365]

Thank you so much for these videos! This is exactly what I was looking for! Very thorough and easy to understand. I have a 96 T100 which is my first truck and admittedly my first love! I am always finding excuses to work on it but since I just got bit by the automotive hobby bug I am not that confident in doing many things. These videos are building my confidence and knowledge about my truck. Thank you again and hope to see more!

[@t0nyloaf]

Came here for my ‘96 T100 as well

[@MsCheapface]

YOU, Sir are a SAINT! Thank you ever so kindly for taking the time & care to make this content & share it with people. Sending you BLESSINGS!

[@WorseThanChiggers]

Thanks for the kind comments. I really appreciate it.

[@Raevenswood]

Thank you for taking the extra time to film this! This is definitely the most informative video on pulling this engine apart!

[@WorseThanChiggers]

Thanks. I really appreciate the kind comments.

[@jungleboyshd5996]

I’m about halfway into this first part, this is the only and best head gasket video for a first gen taco on KZbin lmao thank you for making this series

[@WorseThanChiggers]

Thanks for the kind comments. I really appreciate it.

[@MaxMogren]

Thank you. You taught me so much. After a few weeks of waiting for assorted parts/tools to arrive and several days of getting my hands dirty I got my 96 Tacoma back together and running thanks to your excellent video series. I also learned a lot, but apparently not enough (yet). I have taken the truck for a few test drives (25 miles total) and it runs better than before BUT the tailpipe is spewing more white, sickly sweet smoke than it was before... like putting out a coolant smoke screen! Embarrassing. I do not seem to be losing coolant, but haven't logged many miles. I have a few ideas to share and am hoping you may impart a little more of your wisdom. Checking the forums I see folks saying it may take some miles for residual coolant to steam out of the cat/muffler but the steam seems EXCESSIVE and I am concerned that I didn't fix the problem and still have a leak. After shutting down the motor, I can see coolant dripping off the end of my tailpipe. I just pulled the spark plugs, disabled the fuel pump, and turned it over expecting to see coolant spurt out of at least one of the cylinders, but things remained dry. I just checked compression on all six cylinders, got readings of 145-155psi on #s 1-5 and 135psi on #6. I don't have a leakdown tester, but I am ordering one so I can follow the procedure you laid out so clearly in this video. When I inspected the previous head gasket I noticed an obvious deformation that looked like it would allow coolant into my #6 cylinder, which was definitely my problem, so I figured that would solve the problem but maybe I missed or messed up something. Perhaps heads/block are warped or cracked and I missed that the first go round. I did not have a machinists straight edge, so I just looked for cracks, cleaned everything up really well, used a normal framing square with my thickness gauges, and hoped for the best. Also, I am concerned that I may have not done a good enough job cleaning out the head bolt holes to assure there was no crud in there messing up my torque readings... perhaps I got to 25ftlbs early and didn't compress things sufficiently on my two subsequent 90* rotations? I used new bolts and followed the tightening sequence. I also replaced the thermostat, water pump, and timing belt... and changed the oil. Old oil looked milky. New oil looks good, but I have only driven 25 miles. During my test drives my dash temp gauge seems to be working properly and is showing vehicle not overheating, but after a 5 mile steamy drive my lower radiator hose is still cool to the touch while the upper hose is quite hot. I ordered new upper and lower hoses and a new radiator because the hoses feel a little mushy, and I suspect the radiator may be gummed up and blocking flow. I am tempted to pull the thermostat to double check that I did not install it backwards but looking at old thermostat that I replaced, it does not seem possible to install it backwards in the housing. Do you have any suggestions on how to proceed? Knowing what I know now I'm not opposed to disassembling it all and trying again, but before I do that I figured I should consult the expert and run a leakdown test.

[@WorseThanChiggers]

Wow. I commend you on doing as good a job as you did with what you had. I'm no expert but I think that you'll need to put some more miles on it to see if it clears up, if it shows signs of losing coolant, or if the oil gets milky again. The sweet white smoke indicates coolant in the exhaust system for sure but it doesn't take much for it to do that. It might take 1000 miles to notice a drop in your coolant reservoir. Does it clear up after it warms up or does it continue for the extent of a long drive? If you have a leak like I did on the exhaust side, it would just smoke and you'd eventually notice loss of coolant. A leak on the intake side would likely affect how it runs because it's entering the combustion chamber. I suppose you could still have a crack in the head or a failed head gasket. You didn't mention if you replaced the heads or had them resurfaced at a machine shop to ensure that they are perfectly flat. A blown head gasket is often the result of some other problem such as a warped head due to overheating. By simply replacing the head gasket in such a situation doesn't necessarily resolve the original problem. A leak down test could reveal if you still have a leak between the cooling system and the cylinder heads. Though there may be addition concerns, I don't think that your observations about the thermostat, radiator, and hoses would be related to your exhaust smoke. If there was a serious problem there, you'd have an overheating problem. Maybe that's not the case right now over the cold winter but it might be a different story over the hot summer. It may simply be that your thermostat isn't opening right now because it doesn't need to. It's easy enough to experiment and just take the thermostat completely out and see how well the system flows without it. Good luck and stay persistent. You'll get it!

[@MaxMogren]

@@WorseThanChiggers Thank you for the thoughtful reply. I really appreciate you. I decided to improvise, drilled a tiny hole at the low point of my muffler, and got about 20oz of murky juice to drip out. After that my steamy exhaust problem cleared up pretty quick. Knock on wood, I think I'm good. I should have gotten the heads resurfaced and now know to do so next time. Before your guidance I didn't even know what a leakdown test is, and now I know how to do one and what it tells me... my old 5VZ-FE could use a total rebuild because all the cylinders leak from at least one location! 😁 I picked up this truck 7 years ago with the odometer frozen at 224999, so it has to be pushing 300k by now. Thanks to you it's back in service. ✌️😁👍

[@castronly87]

THE BEST I HAVE SEEN FOR TOOTA PICK UP'S I JUST WATCHED THE 6 VIDEOS ONE AFTER ANOTHER AND IT JUST ISPIRED ME TO DO IT MY SELF ON MY 96 T100, I ONLY REPLACED THE TIMING BELT AND INTAKE GASKETS BUT NOW I AM SURE I CAN DO THE HEAD GASKETS AS WELL THANKS TO THIS GREAT KINDLY MAN.........THERE SHOULD BE MORE MEMBERS LIKE YOU HERE WORSETHANCHIGGERS JUST THANKS... The comment of celia leon its me Sorry about that thanks worsethanchiggers

[@impalalover162]

Fantastic series. The instructions were clear, the angles were good, the editing was wonderful and the thoroughness was incredible. I now feel confident in working on my pickup. Thank you so much for taking the time to do this so well. One of the best I've ever seen with this amount of detail. Thank you again.

[@WorseThanChiggers]

Thanks for the kind comments. I really appreciate it.

[@matthewf5482]

Thank you so much for what you have done. I did both of my head's but this video I mean these videos were a great help it is KZbinrs like you who really make it worthwhile on this platform.

[@WorseThanChiggers]

Thanks for your kind comments. I really appreciate it. Another victory for the DIY good guys!

[@matthewf5482]

@@WorseThanChiggers I had a replacement radiator delivered today but it was for the 4-cylinder and it doesn't line up on the bottom also it was broken so I ended up ordering a new one so in the morning I'll have it running all good but man I appreciate this entire series you did.

[@kinrettler2431]

I have a '96 t100 and had her since 1999, this helped me so much. Thanks!

[@rensb.903]

Very informative! Well narrated. That balloon trick for finding the compression stroke is priceless.

[@jasonbell5152]

This is an excellent video series on how to meticulously prepare, organize and account for parts. Know what to do beforehand, where every part is, not to lose any, be patient, calm and diligent above all, as applicable to any vehicle repair or maintenance procedure. A blown head gasket, however, is usually indicative of additional internal engine damage that head gasket or cylinder head replacement will not solve. A blown head gasket is a huge dilemma that many auto shops will gladly allegedly repair at crushing labour cost to almost no performance improvement. Most models will require between 8-12 shop mechanic meat chart hours to replace a cylinder head. In DIY = 4-6 hours. But it won't address any other latent problems also affected by the issue (overheating and/or compression from shoddy manufacture) that led to the leaky or fully blown gasket. Around this time of year in Canada one can see which car is blowing engine antifreeze out the tailpipe from a leaking head gasket. And it's all aluminum cylinder heads on steel blocks in which the owners, or whichever one in the ownership history, neglected to change the coolant per manufacturer recommended interval or from a lemon build. In a real blown head gasket event, the check engine would illuminate, huge plume of white smoke out the tailpipe and engine would probably shutdown from the computerized emission control. The over-heat to warp an aluminum head or crack a cylinder, if bad enough that can't be milled, is almost always a sign of other unseen damaged parts. It so critical to replace the coolant at spec mileage like engine oil, while hoping the assembly line employees performed their job properly. If buying a used car "as is," it's ideal to have it towed to a garage for full inspection. If they diagnose any head gasket issue, walk away and look for another used vehicle.

[@abdikarimjimale3269]

You are the best, I love the way showed and explained everything. I just can believe I did all that by my self thanks to you man.

[@WorseThanChiggers]

Thanks for the kind comments. I really appreciate it.

[@chuckmarshall6429]

Thanks great video. I learned so much about the 5vz-fe, mine currently has a slow coolant leak, your instruction helps big time.

[@edardon2699]

I buyed the book,won't help me nothing at all,this videos are better than the book.

[@EliyahuYHWH]

A very well done and detailed video procedure, by a very capable and technical professional mechanic. One of the best examples of really good video techniques, well done...

[@WorseThanChiggers]

Thanks for the kind words. I really appreciate it. Professional mechanic? Oh, no. Just another weekend warrior trying to continue learning, save a few bucks, and help out others who share the same interests.

[@jungleboyshd5996]

@@WorseThanChiggers save a few bucks lol these shops were charging me 3,500 for a gasket replacement and I’m only about 400 in. And that’s not even with a possible cracked head

[@WorseThanChiggers]

@@jungleboyshd5996 Keep up the good work and sharing your success stories. You can't fault them for charging a fair wage to feed their families and to cover the tremendous overhead that is required to run a competent shop. I don't work at my occupation for free, either. However, doing it yourself is always an option that not only saves a lot of money but can also be very satisfying.

[@JoseRivera-ys4fg]

I watched al videos from #1 through #6 the best I have ever seen. Thank you for the information.

[@compal55]

just spent my christmas vac doing my head gasket, which turns out cylinder #1 and 3 valves were cracked, i had a set ready for install cause i knew it was bad, thanks to these videos i was able to follow to the "T".......added a new starter while heads were off thanks, would have not known what to do with out these....haven't finished yet, will let you know how it turns out.....so far .....right on track.....third day so far.....i think i can do the whole engine after this....lol thanks a million

[@WorseThanChiggers]

Great story. Do let us know how it comes out. I always like to hear how other peoples' experiences differ from mine.

[@granadojl]

11 minutes into this video... I'm a fan. Great descriptions, explanations, and awesome work.

[@WorseThanChiggers]

Thanks for the kind comments. I really appreciate it.

[@dhowman]

Hands down, *the* best instructional video I've come across on KZbin. Your guidance and tips on the 5VZ-FE combined with your video and editing skills made for a truly pleasurable VC gasket and cam shaft seal job on a recently acquired T100. I listed the time stamps from all 6 parts to jump to on my phone as I dove into this one. Just very, very well done, mate! Big fan with a cold beverage of your choice waiting for you if you're ever in the Annapolis area.

[@WorseThanChiggers]

+dhowman I'm humbled and appreciate the kind words. Stories like yours make it all worth the effort. How many miles are on your new-to-you T100?

[@dhowman]

+worsethanchiggers 170,000 ... great truck with a great engine ... even better now w. no more oil leaks! Probably has another 170,000 left in it. How's the Tacoma doing?

[@WorseThanChiggers]

+dhowman Nice! The Tacoma is running like a top at 245,000 and it doesn't burn a drop of oil. If only I could better control the rust and its only the beginning of the salty road season.

[@OnefastAZfarmtruck]

After watching this, and the thorough walk thru I feel better About possibly having to change a head gasket

[@Asian_Connection]

Thank u for the great video. You make it look so easy. I'm sure it was alot of work. I'm sure you do a better job than 99% of the mechanics. My mechanics couldn't even turn the correct bolts on a cover gasket replacement. Just so upset with shitty jobs.

[@socalpal8416]

Great videos. Your detail is some of the best I've ever seen. My son has a "99 4Runner with a suspect head gasket which I can now test for.......Subscribed!

[@WorseThanChiggers]

Thanks for the kind comments. I really appreciate it. Good luck with your project. Let us know how it turns out and how your experience compares to mine.

[@RGVPatriot33]

Great camera work and editing Clear, concise, and articulate Awesome!

[@WorseThanChiggers]

Thanks for the kind comments. I really appreciate it.

[@Usmanthemecano]

you're a class act! with that cool 1960s movie voice :) thank you for taking the time to share this gift with us all

[@WorseThanChiggers]

Thanks for the kind comments. I really appreciate it.

[@salimev]

Worstthanchiggers, you are a brilliant man!

[@iamtheman7018]

I puchased a 2004 2wd Pre-Runner with 7 original miles on it in 2004. The first 70,000 or 80,000 miles were uneventful. At some point I noticed I was getting a ton of smoke at start up. Changing the oil had no effect on this. Before too long I burnt a valve. I was quoted $3400 for a valve job. With some effort I did it myself for about $700, which included: (All OEM parts from dealer) New Timing belt, tensioner, water pump, head gaskets, all other misc gaskets and belts. The heads were sent out for a valve job, that was $300 of the $700. I should mention that there were only 89,000 miles, and I had foolishly not maintained the vehicle properly. I had not changed the oil in perhaps 10,000 miles. I lved one block from my shop, less than 500 ft, and the 1000's of very very very short trips meant that the engine got up to proper operating temperature perhaps 1 time for every 10 times it was started. These factors combined to create the ideal conditions for sludge, as the moisture entering the system at each start had no chance to "burn off" on short drives. Both of the valve covers were packed with sludge. It was a gooey grimey hateful task, all due to my own stupidity. I also dropped the pan (2wd prerunner) and removed and cleaned the oil pickup, which was about 1/3 obstructed with sludge. There is a trick tool to compress the tensioner to get around removing AC compressor, but I didn't have one either. The AC bracket not so terrible anyways. That was 3 years and 20,000 miles ago, haven't had a single leak or squeak since then.

[@WorseThanChiggers]

+Juan De Nada Jr Thanks for sharing that great story and lesson well learned. Tell me more about the trick tool for compressing the tensioner. I haven't seen that before and like the thought of not having to mess with the A/C compressor.. Sounds like a real time saver assuming the tensioner doesn't need replacing (which is normally a good idea when doing the timing belt).

[@TaterPS]

This tool will save having to mess with the A/C compressor. It's a worthy tool. It's a simple screw jack that compresses the tensioner in situ thereby allowing you to pin it without removal. Schley Products, Inc 97300 Toyota Timing Belt Tensioner Compressor: www.amazon.com/Schley-Products-Toyota-Tensioner-Compressor/dp/B009RXWMNE/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&qid=1473783397&sr=8-1&keywords=5vzfe+tensioner+tool

[@WorseThanChiggers]

Great tip!

[@iamtheman7018]

Though I have never actually used this tool, I advise that one should used it to compress the tensioner while the old water pump is still in, as I had installed a new w.p. and while pondering upon the process I recall wishing I had, to avoid any damage to the new pump.

[@yamatomusashi1412]

I wish I could find similar video for a 2nd gen 4runner. Thank for taking the time. I really shows in the video quality and step by step explanation. Thank you sir!

[@TimmyTheToolman]

Great video series on this job. I appreciate your level of detail and thoroughness. I also like to very comprehensive with the videos I make with my buddy Sean. Our channel is called "Timmy the Toolman". We have lots of videos related to 3rd Gen 4runners and 1st Gen Tacomas. I would provide a link to our channel but I think it would be flagged as spam if I did. Watching you wrench, I don't know If I could teach you much if anything at all but check us out. We currently have over 50 videos and we plan on making more and more. I haven't subscribed to many KZbin channels but you definitely earned my subscription.

[@scottiron6444]

Thank you for making this video.

[@OnefastAZfarmtruck]

My Tacoma steams a little bit for about 3 minutes when it warms up. I can’t tell if it’s moisture in the air or if I have a blown head gasket. I get no coolant in the oil and no loss of coolant but it smells sweet at startup

[@CharlieCiampa]

I really enjoy learning from you!

[@WorseThanChiggers]

Thanks for the kind comments. I really appreciate it.

[@CJLeTeff]

Awesome step by step instructions, very thorough and detaliled!

[@WorseThanChiggers]

Thanks for the kind comments. I really appreciate it.

[@tumenayush9975]

I love it. Thank you for your videos

[@Jrixi]

Great video! Thank you!

[@florenciomendez8139]

Part 1 Professional work

[@connorthesledneck1398]

Steam out of the tailpipe in cold temperatures is 100% normal.

[@playlistforkids]

these videos are incredible. hats off to you good sir

[@tim.mmv.]

Спасибо! Очень подробно и понятно, даже с учетом того что я мало понимаю по английский!

[@WorseThanChiggers]

Вы очень добры. Я желаю, чтобы я знал, как говорить с вами на русском языке без посторонней помощи.

[@jjgonzalez3177]

Thanks for the video! You did a great job on your truck and teaching us!!

[@danielhoefer9168]

Hey dude, really appreciate these videos. Was wondering - 8 years later - do you still have the Tacoma and if so, how is the engine running? Thanks man!

[@WorseThanChiggers]

Unfortunately not. It came down with the dreaded frame rust cancer and would not pass the state safety inspection. But when I sold it, the engine was still purring like a kitten.

[@sukhee5]

That 5VZ-FE motor is Same toyota land cruiser prado 120 5VZ-FE motor?

[@WorseThanChiggers]

Yes. According to Wikipedia, the 5VZ-FE was used in some of those vehicles between 1996 and 2009.

[@chapinadecorazon1075]

Amazing tutorial good job. Thanks all your help God bless you.

[@stevejette2329]

Well done video !! Good sound, lighting, etc. Thank you !

[@WorseThanChiggers]

Thanks for the kind comments. I really appreciate it.

[@jessehickman668]

Awesome video! Big help so thank you

[@outputdamikrip]

Great video sir! Very informative! Thank you for taking your time to create this type of project we have the exact same truck except mine is 1996(red). I will definitely use your video as a guide! Thank you very much WORSETHANCHIGGERS you the MAN!

[@WorseThanChiggers]

Thanks very much for the kind comments. I really appreciate it.

[@69A12SuperBee]

I have done several of these and it is just easier, in my opinion, just pull the whole engine. Excellent tutorial however!

[@wolffepack1]

Never used in the land cruisers- but the rest of the vehicles yes 👍🏻

[@WorseThanChiggers]

Thanks for the correction. Wikipedia is certainly not 100% accurate. :)

[@wolffepack1]

worsethanchiggers hahaha no definitely not. They did use that engine for a long time though.

[@PorkOrb2]

actually in the landcrusier Pradeo, not sold in North America, used the 5VZFE

[@rinkusandhu20]

Do you have a video in detail of adjusting the valve. Also can you adjust it while assembling it or it as to be done after you install it on your pickup.

[@hmongwild]

I actually have the same issue. Started off w new wires. Plugs. Coils. Then injectors. And comes to find out got a small leak into my #4 cylinder. Thats y im here. After all was done how is your truck running.

[@WorseThanChiggers]

Mine is still running like a top. The rust cancer is going to kill it long before the engine gives up. Are you going to dive in and fix yours, too? If so, best of luck and let us know how your experience compares.

[@hmongwild]

No. I just pulled the engine out last week. I didnt want to go threw the hassle of rebuilding everything. So i decided to get a jdm imported engine from over sea. They say those motors have only 45-65k on them.

[@patrickanderson1524]

hmongwild, I have a 96 T100 with the same problem that I’m considering a jdm for. How did it work out for you and where did you get your engine from?

[@hmongwild]

Oh god. I tell u. I went threw hell with this swap. If u do do a swap make sure u swap every single thing over to the jdm motor. From brackests to exhaust manifold pullys dip sticks oil pan. I mean everything. Onces i was done. It runs like a top. Pass smog no problem.

[@dangda-ww7de]

Sorry for the bad news, jdm are rarely got 60k on them, they are strait out lying, the only way to find out is do a compression test on it when u are there. @@hmongwild

[@ЕвгенийПопов-я3ч]

Спасибо за видео!Предстоит самому все это проделать.

[@tomsimpson7994]

They make a tool to push the belt tensioner back in, it expands and pushes it down in, then you put the pin back in

[@tomsimpson7994]

CTA Tools 2670 Toyota Timing Belt Tensioner Compressor

[@Skaterjessy019]

Well my fan won’t come off when I try to loosen the bolts everything spins. I did everything as you. Any other suggestions?

[@cobjread]

Check out Timmy the Toolmans timing belt video, it might offer some other ideas.

[@barrysmith4090]

I cant seem to line up the timing marks on the crankshaft pulley with the timing marks on the top belt pulleys together. How much did you have to crank your pulleys before they lined up? Mine is about 90 degrees off and it doesn't seem to be moving.

[@dreece2000]

Balloon test 👍🏻

[@chadvillarreal9162]

My timing belt slipped when trying to break pulley bolts loose. Can anyone tell me how to insure I’m properly aligned once I remove cylinder head covers? Please?! Thanks!!! Awesome tutorial so far!!!

[@WorseThanChiggers]

Don't worry. Look at part 5 of this video series starting here: kzbin.info/www/bejne/n4KaXqqjn9Rphqc It walks you through setting the timing properly while reinstalling the timing belt. Good luck.

[@chadvillarreal9162]

Thank you!!!!! Life saver!!!! 🙏🏼

[@Mike_44]

Of all the Timing Belt replacement video I’ve see for this motor, you are the only one that removed that bolt by the passenger side to truly drain all the coolant. Great work! I have to replace the T/B on my 2000 4Runner as well. I wonder if that engine coolant drain bolt is still on the same place on my car.. btw, do you know what torque the bolt needs after?

[@WorseThanChiggers]

Thanks for the kind comments. I really appreciate it. I suggest consulting a genuine factory service manual to see if it lists a torque for that specific bolt. Sorry, I don't have mine anymore.

[@gusrodriguez464]

Congratulations, excellent vídeo and work

[@b50richard]

Excellent excellent video, thank you so much! Where did you get your gasket set?

[@WorseThanChiggers]

It was one of the Beck/Arnley sets from RockAuto.

[@carolsutton533]

How did you find out it was on the side that you replaced, and didnt have to take both heads off. cheers

[@WorseThanChiggers]

As can be seen in the video series, the initial leakdown test confirmed the one bad cylinder on the driver's side. The crack that was discovered after the head came back from the machine shop confirmed it.

[@kevalb94]

How come you're not running the twin tip spark plugs as recommended?

[@WorseThanChiggers]

Twin tip plugs might be helpful in some situations. But, the factory service manual specifies options for both twin and single tip plugs. I didn't change my plugs and kept the single tips that had been performing well.

[@kevalb94]

@@WorseThanChiggers Thanks for the reply! I'm wondering, what does it say about twin tip plugs if you remember? I actually would rather use double iridium when I replace my plugs but they don't make a twin tip one so I was gonna use double platinjm, not my first choice.

[@WorseThanChiggers]

I don't have the physical factory service manual or the truck anymore. It died from the dreaded frame rust cancer and wouldn't pass the state safety inspection. Was heartbreaking since the engine still ran like a top. I still have a soft copy of the manual and for the 5VZ-FE engine, it lists both ND K16TR11 and NGK BKR5EKB-11 as recommended spark plugs. The K16TR11 is the double platinum. Personally, I wouldn't bother with iridium plugs over platinum for this application. Iridium plugs cost more and can last the life of the car while platinum plugs can easily last 100,000 miles. If your vehicle isn't new, does it really have 100,000 miles left in it under your ownership? My truck had 255,000 miles on it when I sold it and I only put 37,000 on it under my 11 year ownership.

[@kevalb94]

@@WorseThanChiggers RIP Tacoma, you can tell you took immaculate care of this car and that your mechanical skills are top notch. With respect to the plugs, i buy everything on RockAuto.com and the cost difference between double platinum and double iridium is minor. My 97 4Runner has 200k miles with no rust due to it being a FL car. I think I could realistically get 100-200k miles more if I take good care of it. I'm gonna have to weld in a cat though, the previous owner didn't bother to replace it and just straight piped the thing.

[@jesromerg]

Wowww.... Very professional!, I would like to know where can I buy that workshop manual? Im looking for it and only found Heynes one....

[@WorseThanChiggers]

+jesromerg I found mine used on eBay. You could also buy a subscription to your vehicle on alldatadiy.com

[@gumwap1]

I’ve got a coolant leak in cylinder 4 on my 2000 4Runner. I’m praying it’s just my head gasket and not a cracked head.

[@luismercado9199]

+worsethanchiggers this video is probably the best video tutorial on the subject. thanks very much and i truly appreciate your time answering this question. Im not sure if you mentioned the pricing on the replacement parts. how much money did you pay all and all for the repair/replacement of cracked cylinder head, head gasket and parts?

[@WorseThanChiggers]

+Luis Mercado Your comments are most appreciated! All told, I spent $537 for parts and $278 was my discretionary fund for new helpful tools that I didn't already have. Whenever I do a significant project like this, I often reward myself by adding to my tool collection and I justify it by not having to pay someone else to do the work. I already had all the other tools and incidentals seen in the video. Here's the detailed break-down: Parts: $325.00 rebuilt cylinder head $138.00 gasket set $25.00 cylinder head bolts $23.00 valve shims $10.00 fuel injector electrical connector $16.00 antifreeze $537.00 Parts Total Tools: $54.00 pulley holder $80.00 factory service manual $7.00 oil can $7.00 blow gun nozzle $20.00 torque angle gauge $76.00 steel straight edge $34.00 valve adjusting tool $278.00 Tools Total $815.00 Grand Total

[@tamagage2206]

Oh man this is awesome

[@seatee4770]

How many miles did you have on this truck when the gasket/head was replaced?

[@WorseThanChiggers]

It was around 250K. Pretty good for a Toyota.

[@cbdreamer1709]

Cool video

[@advbeach40]

Thanks for the great video! Can you provide some info on the supplier of your head gasket kit and cylinder head? My sons 99 4runner has the same exact symptoms with about the milage, 245,000. Thanks

[@WorseThanChiggers]

I purchased the BECK/ARNLEY cylinder head gasket set online from RockAuto (part # 0322899) and the cylinder head came from eBay seller "headsonly". One big recommendation from my experience is to check the valve clearances before putting the new cylinder head on the engine. It is FAR easier to replace those shims if necessary with the cylinder head on the bench and while the cams are out.

[@fishing4fish]

Does your truck only smoke on initial start up or does it have smoke all the time? I am in the same boat and mine only have smoke on initial start up but will stop after 5 minutes and not smoke the whole day

[@WorseThanChiggers]

To be more specific, mine was emitting white steam rather than smoke. It would occur at start and then stop after a few minutes. You'll need to determine if yours is white steam or blue oil smoke. Steam will dissipate quickly as it evaporates while blue oil smoke will remain in the air and drift away. If you are getting blue smoke only at startup, it may be that your valve stem oil seals are worn out and are letting oil seep into the cylinders overnight.

[@d.mcpherson8724]

How difficult is this to do on a 2rz engine? are there any risks?

[@johnb6163]

When diagnosing your engine, did it run rough when first starting it up? GREAT VIDEO, intimidating but the most informative thing out there!

[@WorseThanChiggers]

Not that I noticed. It just had an increasing amount of visible white vapor coming from the exhaust pipe, especially first thing in the morning. That was in conjunction with the loss of coolant which required me to periodically add coolant to the overflow reservoir.

[@johnb6163]

Excellent work and excellent video series, thank you so much for posting! I believe you are one of those guys that could perform surgery because you would study up on it so well!! If not for your videos, I probably wouldn't try it but I believe I am going to replace both heads on mine after watching these. I would be interested in knowing if you noticed any before and after differences with the new head like cylinder compression, acceleration, MPG, or anything else you noticed.

[@WorseThanChiggers]

I believe I noticed that it ran a bit more smoothly and I attributed that to having corrected the cam alignment problems on both sides. As seen in the video, I found that the intake and exhaust cams on both sides were installed incorrectly by some previous work and were one tooth off with respect to each other. That resulted in a slight timing problem between the intake and exhaust values opening and closing. Otherwise, I've not noticed any dramatic changes in performance or MPG. Good luck with yours! Why are you contemplating replacing the heads?

[@johnb6163]

Well, I have 222,000 miles. a couple of years ago it got to where it started up and idled rough until it warmed up. I would have to add a little anti-freeze every couple months. I never had milky residue in oil and it never burns oil. I tested my anti-freeze and didn't have exhaust gas getting in. I did seem to smell anti-freeze in my exhaust and sometimes had more white smoke than usual when cold, every once in a while it would billow white smoke until warm, a pretty big cloud. I get P0303 always on cylinder 3, P0300 and P0306 sometimes and they all go away when engine is warm. A year ago I tried the Blue Devil Head Gasket Sealant and ran it without #3 spark plug installed, have never had to add any anti-freeze since and no smoke. I still get the misfire and the error codes until it is warm, then it runs pretty good when thermostat opens. I checked compression and the are all low but all close. Cyl 1=130, cyl 3 = 130 (and 125 first check), cyl 5 = 130, cyl 2 = 135, cyl 4 = 130, cyl 6 = 120 (and 110 first check). If it wasn't over 105 degrees outside I would have probably already started.

[@israelrodriguez6986]

@@WorseThanChiggers Isnt it normal to lose some coolant overtime in hotter temperatures like deep south texas,,,due to evaporation?

[@josephshaw2747]

+worsethanchiggers At what rate was the engine consuming coolant prior to the head gasket replacement? The level in my expansion tank drops about a quarter to half an inch after being filled to the full mark over a 4-5 month period. Fairly certain that my head gasket is still good though.

[@WorseThanChiggers]

+Joseph Shaw Mine was far more severe than that due to the cracked cylinder head. If didn't keep up with it, my expansion tank would be nearly empty ever 3-4 weeks depending on how much I drove the truck.

[@johnpierce6025]

where did you get you service manual from

[@WorseThanChiggers]

Used on eBay

[@stormryderagentred8369]

really enjoy your video. It was very informative. but I have a question. I notice when I remove my passenger side cylinder head, I notice a little washer stuck to the head gasket. Did you notice the same washer on yours? I haven't put mine back on until I'm sure. thanks for the video.

[@WorseThanChiggers]

The only thing that I can think of are the metal rings that are integral to some head gaskets themselves. Look here at part 4 of this video series where I show my new head gasket. It has metal rings embedded into the head gasket material to, I assume, aid with how it seals. Perhaps one of those fell out of your old gasket. kzbin.info/www/bejne/pHe8dqKNib1jj7c

[@stormryderagentred8369]

thanks for getting back to me, appreciate it. the gasket that came of was the triple layer steel. if I could I would show you a pic as it was on the block. so you are saying when you remove your passenger side head you didn't see any washer on your's? I will put it back and I will leave it off.

[@WorseThanChiggers]

I only removed the cylinder head from the driver's side but the two heads are nearly identical. I did not notice anything like that on mine. Look here where I inspect the engine block and remove my old head gasket and see if there's something like what you saw. kzbin.info/www/bejne/pHe8dqKNib1jj7c

[@stormryderagentred8369]

No your's official. I'll go with my gut and just put it back without it. Thanks for the video and your response. Tacoma lead the way. That my slogan.

[@kenancajas5617]

What is the spark plug wire diagram on your Toyota Tacoma 1995?

[@WorseThanChiggers]

Here ya go: lmgtfy.com/?t=i&q=5vz-fe+spark+plug+wire+diagram

[@ThePerpetualStudent]

The procedure is the same for a 3rd Gen 4Runner, correct??

[@WorseThanChiggers]

Yes, if it has the same 5VZFE engine.

[@burn1962ride]

What did you use to mark hoses etc....Markers?

[@WorseThanChiggers]

Just cheap acrylic craft paints that I had on hand. Paint pens would have been easier.

[@burn1962ride]

Cool deal man. By the way great videos. But if I may say that was not amateur. All the proper tools you own makes the job so much easier.

[@WorseThanChiggers]

Thanks for the kind comments. I really appreciate it. I can justify a new tool each time I take on a new project because I'm not paying someone else to do the work. And, I have an understanding wife. :)

[@burn1962ride]

That's always a good blessing.....a fair and understanding wife. Good luck sir with your endeavors.👍

[@israelrodriguez6986]

How did u develop the patience for this?! Wish i had tht kind of endurance lol!

[@WorseThanChiggers]

Ha, I guess it's therapeutic and definitely satisfying.

[@Leino26]

Awesome job. I hope you keep the truck. Did you buy the parts OEM ? on a toyota dealer? or aftermarket? my 2002 toyota is burning a lot of oil.

[@WorseThanChiggers]

Some genuine Toyota parts and some aftermarket. I typically get OEM parts from online sources like Conicelli Toyota Parts. My head gasket kit was aftermarket, made by Beck/Arnley and ordered off Amazon.

[@Leino26]

Thank you so much. Tonight , I will watch the third part. Do you still have the truck? If so, Is it running well after the job you did?

[@WorseThanChiggers]

I certainly do and it's running like a champ. If only I could prevent the rust cancer that is taking over.

[@Leino26]

I'm glad. Mine doesn't have rust which is not common here in the north east coast. I'm going to replace the PCV valve to see if it stops burning oil. I am not a mechanic. i don't have the skills to do what you did either. My truck just turn 139K. i don;t know why is burning oil with that amount of mileage.

[@MarshallBLewis]

What type of camera and camera equipment did you use to film this?

[@WorseThanChiggers]

Believe it or not, I used my old Samsung Galaxy Note 2 on a tripod. I ran an extension cord out to the front porch and had the charger plugged in. I then did the final editing using Adobe Premier Elements.

[@MarshallBLewis]

Thanks! Another question, what brand of wrenches and sockets do you use?

[@WorseThanChiggers]

Nothing special. I have an eclectic mix of things but nothing super expensive. My primary set is the Harbor Freight 301 Pc Mechanic's Tool Set which meets my modest needs.

[@MarshallBLewis]

Cool! I had a HF flare nut wrench break on me one time so I've always been a little unsure of how their tools hold up. Have you had anything in that 301pc break on you?

[@WorseThanChiggers]

The screwdrivers, combination wrenches, and allen wrenches are garbage. But the bulk of the set is terrific for the price including the 1/4, 3/8, and 1/2" ratchets, sockets, extensions, hex sockets, torx sockets, etc. I bought it several years ago for $149 w/coupon.

[@Yota4lyfe]

Awesome help Thank you!

[@jamespalmer9556]

you seem to be the smartest person ive seen on utube, i gotta question, we have a 99 4runner 3.4 - 4x4 and it started smoking white smoke lasts until 15 minutes after warmup dissapears , now the engine runs pretty smooth but has 1500 RPM idle at start up and 500 RPM after warm up, i thought nothing of the smoke this winter but hey ! its still smoking white smoke on warm days till motor is warm? another thing it seems like its too weak when climbing long hills like its underpowered, and temperature always stays half way point on the guage, what test would you recomend here?

[@jamespalmer9556]

could my car have a dirty IAC valve? causing the smoke? i saw videos where water runs through the throttle body and theres a rubber gasket on the IAC housing

[@WorseThanChiggers]

It sounds like you have confirmed that it is truly white smoke rather than blue and that it's not just normal condensation. You now need to find the source of the water that is causing what is actually steam. Check the radiator and reservoir for a low coolant level which would be a clue. If so, there is either an internal or external coolant leak. An external leak would likely be visible but an internal leak would need further diagnosis. My internal leak in this video was a crack in the head between the cooling passages and an exhaust valve. A crack elsewhere or a blown head gasket could allow coolant into an intake valve, or directly into the combustion chamber either of which could produce steam out the exhaust. Perform a leak down test and a pressure test on the cooling system to see if you can find a leak or confirm a blown head gasket. Also, check for coolant in the oil by looking for milky deposits inside the oil filler cap and by draining a sample of oil from the oil pan drain plug.

[@WorseThanChiggers]

Some cars do have coolant lines that run to the throttle body in order to keep if from freezing in the winter. I suppose that it is plausible for a leak there to effectively inject water into the air/fuel mixture. A classic dirty or sticking IAC would affect your idle speed and not induce a smoking problem.

[@jamespalmer9556]

worsethanchiggers 4 months ago i had the whole intake off to change the valve cover gaskets and plugs and wires, im wondering if i might should've put new gaskets on then but the tutorials i saw on utube stated no need to change the gaskets

[@ericchioffe6691]

Where did you buy your gasket set from?

[@WorseThanChiggers]

It was the Beck/Arnley kit from RockAuto.

[@jungleboyshd5996]

Done with part 1