Timing Chain Kit

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I'm replacing the timing chain in an 86 4-runner with 22re. I'm curious about what kits you guys have used and which you think is the best. Also what parts should we replace for good measure so we don't have to mess with this area of the engine again?
 
Some will chime in and reply that they suggest a metal guided timing chain kit. You can buy those from Ted at engnbldr.com or from Tim at doaracing.com. Others will say to stay with the plastic guides and, thus, buy OEM from Toyota.

My advice is to not stray from one of these three suggestions.
 
i used engnbldr head set and head bolts on the truck im driving now (22re), and so far ive got close to 8000mi out of it with no problems. the gaskets look like the same ones from Felpro but way less expensive.

i used a felpro headset on a 22rtec, and then found out about engnblr and ordered the timing set(w/steel guide and timing cover), head bolts and the water pump and oil pump combo. the timing cover and water pump were really nice. the only thing i didnt like about the oil pump was the timing marks arent as clean and clear as an OEM.

I drove the 22rtec about 6000mi, then sold it to a buddy 8 months ago and its still on the road running strong.

I would use engnblr most everything from now on, or until money becomes no object then i could aford OEM
 
I replaced:

Timing chain
Cam sprocket
Crank sprocket
Oil Pump
Water Pump
T Stat

I used engnbldr's kit MINUS the gaskets. Bought Toyota gaskets. As well, Water pump and Oil pump came from Toyota.

If your truck has a lot of miles (150k or so) might as well replace your alternator brushes while the engine bay is clear. I wish someone would have suggested that to me ( : Now I have alt issues at 185k miles.

Anyhoo, my cam/crank sprocket were not really in need of replacing BUT they come with the kit so I replaced them.

Might as well set the valves and check distributor/plugs/plug wires.
 
I used Toyota gaskets and an Engnbldr timing set with steel guides. Well over 10,000 miles with no issues and no chain noises. I'm a believer...
 
I replaced:

Timing chain
Cam sprocket
Crank sprocket
Oil Pump
Water Pump
T Stat

I used engnbldr's kit MINUS the gaskets. Bought Toyota gaskets. As well, Water pump and Oil pump came from Toyota.

If your truck has a lot of miles (150k or so) might as well replace your alternator brushes while the engine bay is clear. I wish someone would have suggested that to me ( : Now I have alt issues at 185k miles.

Anyhoo, my cam/crank sprocket were not really in need of replacing BUT they come with the kit so I replaced them.

Might as well set the valves and check distributor/plugs/plug wires.

That's a good list and absolutely the right OEM items. FWIW, there seems to be lots of advice around to only use Toyota OEM water pumps.
 
I am using Engnbldr timing set with steel guides, water pump, oil pump and the gaskets he recommended. Putting the kit on this weekend. Best prices by far.

Dave
 
I replaced:

Timing chain
Cam sprocket
Crank sprocket
Water Pump

X2

I found a really cheap Timing set on ebay with steel guides, both sprockets, tensioner, and gaskets for like $50 or so. It was the same stuff as a $110 name brand set (don't remember I bought it from my engine builder). I would stray away from plastic guides.
 
I noticed on the bottom of the timing chain cover there is JB weld from the PO. turns out there is a crack right above where the timing cover meets the oil pan. it does leak is there anyway i can remove the jb weld and try it again or am I screwed?
 
You could grind down the JB weld but I would reapply it. Do a better job of it an it should not leak.

Dave
 
You could grind down the JB weld but I would reapply it. Do a better job of it an it should not leak.

Dave

Are you saying I should grind it down and put new JB on it?

Here are some pics of the progress so far, the engine has about 170k on it and the timing chain was quite loose. Also some pics of my shop, and shop dog.
IMG_0676.webp
IMG_0679.webp
IMG_0681.webp
 
I see an FJ-40 bezel up there.
 
That is a stamped steel cam gear ya got there....


Not forged, holes not punched to distribute warpage and distortion, and definitely not factory. I'd at least get a cam gear that's either forged, or....forged.

Get some factory, or some real good aftermarket.


Toyota Tchain covers go for about a hundred in my parts. If you can get a Yoter one, I'd get one. Don't get one with wear rings around where the oil pump goes. It can be enough to let oil get by and your motor will have less OP. I have herd some aftermarket TC covers have fitment issues. I have no exp w/ them though, I try to use only Toyota parts as much as I can.
 
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that piece on the bottom, at that distance, could almost pass as a model 71 deluxe short with the sling off.

That was my grandpas 22lr its a lever action single shot.
 

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