Leaky '03 V8 4runner (9 Viewers)

[joshik]

Hey! I recently hit 320k on my 03 V8 4runner. Been running strong but of course there are some leaks.

I knew of my valve cover leak which I plan to take care of soon and of course the infamous tcase actuator. But lately, it seems like a lot more is leaking so I took it into my local shop.

This is what they had on the leaky list:

• PS line
• Trans cooler line
• valve cover
• rear main
• upper oil pan
• passenger CV boot

The big ticket items are the rear main and the upper oil pan. How crucial is it to get these fixed or is it just something I can live with and keep a check on the fluids?
The rear main is $1500 and the upper oil pan is $4500. I love my 4runner and want to keep driving (it is tailored to how I use it solo and with my fam while offroad and camping) but I don't know if it makes sense financially to drop $6000 into it.

Thoughts? I love the shop I take my 4runner to but does anyone have any other shop recommendations in the San Diego area? Thoughts on the prices?

 

[andrewderrick]

I’m gonna guess the upper pan isn’t leaking, have the dipstick o ring replaced and valve cover gaskets and see what happens

 

[joshik]

that would be awesome if that is the issue. I am replacing the valve covers. I'lll do the dipstick when I get back from my trip. Thx for the tip!

 

[alia176]

first and foremost, spray an engine degreaser on everything and clean it nicely. Then, look for the oil leaks that are the low hanging fruits. Valve cover gasket is one of them that's for sure. The cooler lines are also an easy one. The CV axle boot is a harder one but completely DIY. You can buy a 'reboot" kit from Toyota and i prefer to go this route because OEM axles are the strongest and longest lasting. However, a rebooting effort is messy and involved. YT has vids on everything for our rides.