How to Replace Valve Cover Gaskets 1996-2002 Toyota 4Runner

[@TRQ]

√ Watch the Video √ Buy The Part at 1A Auto 1aau.to/m/Shop-TRQ-Parts √ Do it Yourself √ Save Money

[@chrisryan9986]

I just finished this job and have a couple important tips that were not included in this video... First, no need to drain the coolant, I'm at a loss as to why this step was included. Second, the 1/2 moons, 2 per side, front and back, should be removed, cleaned, and re-seated, using the appropriate RTV/sealant. Same with the cam seals. Ideally they need to be replaced, one on each side, closest to the fire wall. Since you've come this far, replace the intake manifold gaskets and pcv valve. Lastly, do the passenger side first. It's easier and requires far less disassembly than the driver side. It will give you a feel for the process. Use new grommet/washers when resecuring the the valve covers. The old ones are likely brittle. I did the passenger side one day, drivers side the next. Also replaced the plugs and wires while I was in there.

[@Axustr]

Great video, I was able to do this on my 98' very easily. However, I had a few minor differences in my engine with the throttle cables, and some of the hose lines. It was still pretty straightforward. Some things I had to figure out on my own: Hammering out the 3 seals in the valve cover I noticed that it left a ring still inside. The best way I was able to get the rest out was by flipping it over and wedging a flat head underneath it to pry it out. Another thing that I did that was my own fault was not tightening the valve cover from the inside out and over-torquing the bolts. This led me to cracking the cover and having to buy a new one. This was my First time working on my engine; if this is your first time, this video is great.

[@AngleHero]

Why would you drain coolant

[@WalkmanAssassin]

You are Saint TOYOTA 4 Runner Certified - thank you for this.

[@jimmoss9584]

Like My Cousin Vinny. Plug the manifold ports. God I hate this job. In the 1970s we used to use RTV Silicone over the gaskets to keep them from leaking.

[@eugenepotts1581]

Is there a reason you only changed one side?? I’m about to attempt this endeavor this weekend on a ‘97 4Runner…

[@TheOldKid]

Makes me really miss my hotrods. Open the hood pull valve cover off. No spaghetti to deal with

[@thepitpatrol]

I am so thankful i live in the south.

[@SyKoAsS3o3]

I can take everything off but no idea how to put it back correctly

[@James-vi2bi]

I see you didn't replace the half moons or the camshaft plugs. Any reason for that?

[@Derek117100]

Careful hammering in those seals. I tore through one of my new ones. 😅😢

[@jackhmason]

Very good job. I’m still daunted to dive so far in. I’ve started by tightening the valve cover bolts which did seem a little loose. Is that typical after 175K miles?

[@redeyestlouis4651]

I just got me a 1998 4Runner that has the exact same engine in it. Love this truck. Gotta get a valve gasket fix up tho.

[@smilesnow4593]

Do you have to drain the coolant?

[@jlepich8319]

My valve cover gasket bolts were RIDICULOUSLY LOOSE. Especially where the oil leak was. Seems to be a common theme. Check them first, but don’t overtighten🤙

[@jimmoss9584]

With MGA 1957 which leaked all the time, we would use RTV all over both sides of the valve cover gaskets as well as the oil pan. I have found it pretty impossable to keep the 1996 4Runner from leaking. I think I will try that here.

[@MichaelSchmitz-mk8ll]

Thx for the parts numbers.... it really helped....

[@Back40Bushcraft]

Effin' amazing video.

[@jackcody3102]

so I saw that you scraped off the old intake manifold material, but I didn't see that you replaced those new gaskets on both sides of it?

[@engineheader]

why do you put the RTV on the gasket in those spots? why do you drain the coolant? if you are take the middle part of the manifold off, why do you clean it before you remove it instead of cleaning on the bench? why did you end up installing a new valve cover?

[@jimmoss9584]

Great Video

[@waynesanders1406]

I'm about to do this myself. Pretty good video. You should do videos for 1A Auto.

[@react1200]

Do you need to drain the oil before starting this?

[@jimmynickels6248]

Respect to you sir. Looks like brain surgery to me. 😳

[@LAG_AUTOSPORTS]

"Add proper coolant" Proceeds to add wrong coolant.....4Runners take Pink Coolant thus "Pink milkshake"...