Recent content by Todd Atchison

I just got a call from the mechanic. He says he got the alarm cleared and hasn't returned. It sounds like we have the same issue krice - I'm going to keep an eye on it. That and start saving for a new ABS Master Cylinder and when it goes just drop it in. Who knows the mechanic said the pump had...

I recently had my rear breaks done and a couple of days later an alarm (high pitch tone) and an ABS dash light came on. Tech stream says ABS pump presser etc… I take it back to my mechanic that did the breaks and he says it’s an ABS control module. He also says its $3500 or more to fix. First...

Any of the AHC Stuff still working? Would you let loose of any of it?

After repairing the AC I took the family on a 6 day camping / sailing adventure. Four passengers, a 16 foot camper, two bikes, a sailboat and tons of gear for a week. Not a wimpier. She is setting a bit low in this pic as she was in the LO position. I will need to "stiffen-up" the rear with...

Thanks Tim! Just a note and follow-up for the group. I completed the the compressor swap with no issues and with relative ease (ease as it relates to a 23 year-old LX 470 lol). There were issues but, not with the removal or re-install. Just follow Tim's tool guide and recommendations. The wobble...

So I'm at my sometime mechanic / Toyota Guru talking about changing my ac compressor when I ask a very simple question. That question it seems is one of great debate. You see I'll be removing the oil filter to get the compressor out and wanted to make sure I had a quart or two on hand to top off...

Sounds like I'm good then. this is literally 1/4 of a dime size or less. Just don't want it spreading when the windshield starts heating up and cooling down this winter. Good to hear you had success.

Question: Am I the only one that feels incredibly bad when we do something to our 100's that could have been avoided? A paint chip? A ding? In my case, I won't get into the details, but I put an every so small crescent crack in my windshield. O.K. I'll tell you, I was working on my rack when one...

Ordered my keys tonight 1 OEM master with fob, one OEM sub and a non-OEM cheapo master to have for emergencies. I’ll reprogram the current valet once the new master is paired with the ECU. Cheers!

So I only have one valet key to my 1998 LX 470. I've done my homework and it looks like Mauser is the resident expert. He has offered to send my a "virginized" EÇU to swap with my existing one so I can add a couple of master keys. I found the ECU with no problem (and discovered I need to change...

Still struggling a bit myself... I can get it to run long enough to reset a code but, that's about it. I'm planing on giving it some love this weekend. I'll let you know. Cheers.

Flint has been a real help. Anytime I put something out there he is usually the first one with info and is never condescending. There is a lot to learn about our trucks even for experienced wrenchers... these trucks will soon go the way of the 80’s and the 60’s and the 40’s before them, the...

Thanks I saw this one - actually these guys inspired me lol! Though If you listen closely they are discharging the system into the atmosphere... LOL. I don't think you're suppose to do that! Otherwise good video and the definition of "shade tree mechanic" in any culture.

Yeah I was afraid this one might be a bit out of my league - My mechanic quoted about $1200 to do everything (compressor, dryer, charged). He said it was a bit of a process. Perhaps I'll have him evacuate the system. I'll confirm but I think he did that when I had him check it out a couple of...

Great advice. I never attempted this job on any vehicle so I'm a bit nervous - You recommend taking to a shop instead of buying my own vacuum and gauges? I've heard both opinions - we have another 80 series and a Subaru that needs AC work - thought it might be a good addition to the shop.