stuck ignition key solution/radiator question (1 Viewer)

[mrsalty]

Gentlemen,
Thanks for the advice on the ‘stuck’ ignition. I was pretty sure a new key would not fix it, as the door locks still worked fine with the original and all copies I had made. Turns out that the ignition lock cylinder was bad. Not real common, but apparently it happens. I was able to remove the entire cylinder, and ‘modify’ the mechanism. Fortunately, I was able to get the key to the ACC position. Then it was simply a matter of pressing the release on the bottom of the cylinder to pull the entire mechanism. I cut the outside housing off, and replaced the inner cylinder and top of the housing into the empty slot (see photo for details).
The reciprocating saw is a wonderful tool. The dealer wants $90 for a new lock and cylinder. I think I will wait on this purchase, since I have many other items to replace. And on that note…... Check out my radiator (see pic). Can a shop reseal/crimp that top piece. I know the FSM shows a full teardown of the radiator, but I would just as soon pay someone who already knows how to do this. No noticeable problems, but obviously there is leakage, albeit slight. FWIW, I have started using premium fuel in my FZ. The increase in mileage does appear to justify the extra .10 per gallon difference.


94 FZJ 133K locked 2.5 OME 285/75 Cooper ATR DD

 

[IdahoDoug]

I suspect you'll need to pull the upper tank simply because you've got crusty deposits under the seal now. Tapping those aluminum "fingers" might overcome this issue but I'd be worried the crusties would prevent a good seal. If it were mine, I'd clean the area after carefully determining which ones need to be tightened, then tap the fingers down with a punch to see if it helps. If this doesn't work, you're out 10 minutes work as the seam's coming apart anyhow. Keep in mind you can get a factory radiator yourself for approx $400 from Cdan if the quote you get to remove, strip, repair the old one is too much.

DougM

 

[cruiserman]

Lean on the rad while reaching for the spark plug boots. My rad leaked at the same spot.

 

[Riley]

Gentlemen ... snip...

FWIW, I have started using premium fuel in my FZ. The increase in mileage does appear to justify the extra .10 per gallon difference.

Hi Salty - FWIW I'm not buying this. Everything I've heard about burning the good stuff is that unless it's required (i.e. a super charged 80) then it's a waste.

Are you sure that you are getting better mileage?

 

[mrsalty]

Thanks Doug,
As I am cheap (well, I own an 80, but you know what I mean) I will try to do the clean and re-punch first. If that fails, then I will probably take it to a shop as I don't want to force the new rad issue by screwing something up trying to remove and reseal the top. I also was under the impression the brass core radiators(no longer available?) were preferable to the aluminum models??

Riley, I bring up the gas grade because the radiator leak just statred to do this right after I ran the first tank through. Coincidence, probably, but just thought I should point it out just in case. I live in Colorado, and frankly the 4.5 leaves a bit to be desired on the way through the mountains. Maybe I just get jealous driving up Vail pass and watching the V8 LC pass me like I am a U-Haul. I don't notice a huge power difference running the 91, maybe just placebo effect. But if I average even a half a mile per gallon more, the cost offsets the 87 vs 91 octane difference. For the $2-3 difference per tank, (whether I paid $51 or $54) it seemed to be worth it as an experiment. I guess I am wanting insight from those with firsthand experience to point out the error of my ways. I guess short of a rebuild (4.7 aka Robbie) I have not seen another way (blower and turbo not options) to help the reliable yet anemic 4.5. I can't imagine what the 4.0 was like. Anyway, thanks for the reply. This is a great site. Appreciate all the advice and..................'bantor' I guess would be the best word for it.

 

[Riley]

Regarding the brass rad, talk to C-Dan at American Toyota. I'm sure it's still available.