Showing posts with label toyota. Show all posts
Showing posts with label toyota. Show all posts

Friday, June 6, 2014

How to Replace a Catalytic Converter on a Toyota Tercel

The first thing you can do to replace the catalytic converter in your Toyota Tercel is forget about the cheaper universal fit catalytic converter at the auto parts stores. Although this may seemingly save you money for the part, youre going to have to buy adapters or figure out how to make that universal fit converter fit like a direct fit converter. A direct fit converter for a Tercel will have a two-point flange on either side and will do just as its label describes: fit directly. In the long run it will save you time, money, and will work better for your Tercel since it was specifically designed for it.

Instructions

    1

    Lift the Toyota Tercel on a car lift all the way up.

    2

    Put on the cutting glasses, and light the acetylene torch using a striker. Cut the bolts and nuts from the catalytic converter from the flange(s) on the converter side. This way you will not incur damage to the flanges bolted to the converter flanges. Cut the bolt heads (with the torch) or the nuts flush to the converter flange.

    3

    Turn the torch off, switch over to safety glasses, and knock out the bolts from the converter side of the flanges using the hammer and a long stemmed punch. If they do not punch through, you may need to relight the torch and cut into the bolt hole a little deeper.

    4

    Remove the old converter.

    5

    Pick the old gaskets off of the pipe flanges on both side using a pick or awl.

    6

    Clean the surface of the flat part of the pipe flanges on both sides using an angled die grinder with a sanding disk.

    7

    Place the new gaskets onto the small pipe outlet protruding from the pipe flanges.

    8

    Check the exhaust flow of the new catalytic converter. It will be stamped on the shell or shields of the converter and be easy to see. There will be an arrow pointing in the direction of the exhaust flow or an A and B marking. A would indicate towards the front of the motor, and B would indicate towards the back of the Tercel.

    9

    Attach the converter flanges to the pipe flanges and place the bolts into the flanges (in any direction) in this fashion: bolt head with a flat washer through the flanges, then a lock washer and nut.

    10

    Tighten the bolts and nuts holding one end with a wrench and tightening with an air ratchet. Tighten each bolt a little bit, switch to the next one, and continue this pattern until all four nuts and bolts have seated the flanges tight together.

    11

    Remove tools and lower the Tercel on the lift. Start it up, raise it up again, and check for any possible leaks coming from the flange connections. If so, tighten the bolts some more.

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Tuesday, April 15, 2014

How to Clear Codes on the 1985 Toyota Truck

How to Clear Codes on the 1985 Toyota Truck

On-board diagnostics (OBD) computers were put into vehicles in the early 1980s to monitor and troubleshoot problems within vehicles. To clear the codes in your 1985 Toyota truck you need only an end wrench and a few moments of your time. Clearing the codes will turn off all lights such as "Check Engine" or "Service Engine Soon" from your instrument cluster. Make sure you have all repairs and servicing done before you clear the codes to allow the OBD computer to function properly.

Instructions

    1

    Check to make sure your ignition is completely off. Then pull the hood release lever.

    2

    Locate the battery under the hood. Find the negative terminal on the battery. Look for a retaining nut attached to the clamp and loosen it using the end wrench.

    3

    Slip the clamp off of the negative terminal, taking care to keep it away from the positive side of the battery.

    4

    Wait a minute and then put it back on the negative terminal. Tighten the nut with the end wrench. Lower the hood.

    5

    Put the key into the ignition and start the truck. Look on the instrument panel to make sure all the lights are off.

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Monday, March 31, 2014

How to Read Codes in a Toyota 4 Runner

How to Read Codes in a Toyota 4 Runner

Your Toyota 4 Runner comes standard with a system diagnostic controller that contains a datalink connector. The connector can be plugged into an OBD II code reader that will read the trouble codes that the system diagnostic controller sends out. These codes will help you pinpoint the exact trouble with the Toyota. The codes can also be reset by the OBD II reader after repairs have been performed. The reader can be purchased from any auto parts store.

Instructions

    1

    Find the datalink connector under the drivers side dashboard, to the right of the steering wheel. Plug the OBD II reader into the datalink connector.

    2

    Put the key into the 4 Runners ignition and turn it to the "On" position, but dont start the vehicle.

    3

    Select the "Read Codes" command or similar type of command. Write down the numerical codes. Look the codes up in the readers manual for an exact description of the problem.

    4

    Unplug the OBD II reader from the datalink connector. Turn the ignition key to the "off" position. Take your Toyota to a mechanic to have repairs completed.

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Sunday, March 23, 2014

How to Replace a Muffler on a Toyota Previa

The Toyota Previa muffler is not a hard one to replace. The hardest part might be locating the correct muffler for the year and model Previa you have. In other words, whether its a DX model Previa or an LE model Previa. Choosing the brand of muffler may be another challenge and then finding the availability of one. Toyota will have one for about $350 plus shipping. However you can find one in the aftermarket world for less than half of that with the same kind of warranty and shipped to you just as quickly. Bosal is a fine import aftermarket exhaust system manufacturer and you can purchase or order them through many local parts stores or find them online. Just make sure you have all the information about our Previa before you do.

Instructions

    1

    Lift the Previa all the way up on a car lift.

    2

    Locate the flange connection of the muffler inlet pipe just forward of the rear axle.

    3

    Put on cutting glasses and gloves and light the torch. Cut the two bolts on the muffler side of the flange connection until they are melted or cut below the flange itself. Turn off the torch.

    4

    Strike the muffler side of the flange with a hammer to separate the two flanges. If you have to, use the punch and hammer to knock out the cut bolts through the other flange. Once the separation of the flanges are complete, switch over to the safety glasses so you can see better.

    5

    Remove the muffler hangers (front and rear) from the rubber hangers on the frame of the Previa. Discard the old muffler.

    6

    Clean any remnants of the old gasket off of the pipe flange where you cut the muffler from using the gasket scraper.

    7

    Install the new muffler in the same manner you removed the old one. Place the rubber hangers on the frame onto the muffler hangers to hold it in place for you. The rear axle will hold the inlet pipe in place.

    8

    Insert the new gasket and connect the new muffler flange to the pipe flange. Connect with the 10 millimeter hardware placing the flat washer on the bolt head side of the flange and the lock washer and nut on the other side.

    9

    Secure the bolt head in place with the box wrench and tighten the nut with the gun and socket. Tighten one side snug. Then bring in the other side. Do not tighten one side securely first and then the other, or you may kink the gasket.

    10

    Lower the Previa and start it up to check for any leaks at the flange connection.

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Thursday, March 6, 2014

How to Read the Codes on a 1989 Toyota 22RE

You can read the codes on a 1989 Toyota 22RE using an OBD I code reader. An On-Board Diagnostics computer monitors all the functions of the Toyota. It illuminates a warning or service light on the instrument panel when it receives trouble codes from sensors positioned throughout the vehicle, This OBD I code reader is used to retrieve these codes. It is also used to reset the computer after repairs are made to the Toyota.

Instructions

    1

    Plug the OBD I code reader into the diagnostic port on the driver-side dashboard near the steering column. Dont force it in or you may bend the pins inside.

    2

    Put the key into the ignition and turn it to the "II" position. This will power most code readers. If not, look for an "on/off" switch on the code reader. Turn it on. Wait while the OBD I code reader retrieves the codes.

    3

    Write down the codes on a piece of paper. Look up the codes in the code readers manual to determine their meaning.

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How to Replace the Shock Absorbers on a 1997 Toyota Tacoma Xtra Cab 4X4

How to Replace the Shock Absorbers on a 1997 Toyota Tacoma Xtra Cab 4X4

When the Toyota Tacoma was introduced in 1995, it featured front struts instead of shocks. The front struts are also erred to as coil over shocks because they are not attached to the integral knuckles of the truck. The true shocks on the Tacoma are in the rear, but older Toyota trucks also have shocks in the front. The difference between a shock and a strut is that the shock is a separate component from the coil spring; thus it doesnt require a spring compressor.

Instructions

    1

    Park your Toyota Tacoma on a flat, paved surface and place two wheel chocks in front of and behind one of the front tires.

    2

    Raise the rear of the Tacoma with a jack under the rear differential high enough to support it on jack stands placed under the rear axle, away from the shock bolts, nuts and steel brake lines. Leave the jack in place under the rear differential for added support but have the weight of the truck resting on the stands.

    3

    Put on safety glasses before crawling underneath the truck with the metric wrench set,

    1/2-inch drive ratchet with shallow metric sockets and the replacement shocks.

    4

    Hold one of the lower shock bolt heads with a metric wrench in place and remove the nut with a ratchet and metric socket turned counterclockwise.

    5

    Repeat Step 4 for the upper shock and nut. If necessary, replace the nut onto the bolt and strike it with a hammer to loosen the bolts from the upper and lower shock mounts. Remove the nuts and bolts.

    6

    Replace the upper shock bolt and nut (with washers) onto the new shock and install it by reversing the removal procedure. Replace the lower next shock. This shock will have to be compressed in order to align the bottom bolthole to the mount so that the bolt can go through the hole correctly. Be sure to replace the washer onto the bolt. Tighten the lower nut with the ratchet and socket while holding the bolt head with a wrench.

    7

    Repeat Steps 4 through 6 for the other rear shock. Raise the truck with the jack, remove the jack stands then lower your Tacoma to the ground and remove the wheel chocks.

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Friday, February 21, 2014

Problems With a Toyota Smart Key

Smart keys used with Toyota vehicles are electronic devices that allow car owners to unlock, lock and start vehicles without the need of a standard key and key-entry process. The keys emit a radio frequency that is picked up by a vehicle antenna. When the vehicle senses the device is in proximity, the doors are unlocked and the engine can start without the need of a standard key. These devices make Toyota vehicles more technically savvy, but they also come with an array of issues.

Interference

    When the smart key is within acceptable vicinity of the vehicle, the antenna on the vehicle will pick up the signal transmitted from the key. This signal allows the car to unlock the door or engine to start. When the key is not within range of the vehicle, the car remains locked. Because electrical signals from the key are sent through the air, similarly to radio frequencies, there is a chance they could encounter interference from other electrical frequencies. It has been reported that gas stations, military bases and airports, all locations with heavy radio frequencies and traffic, can interfere with the functionality of the smart key. When in a location with interference, the smart key may not function remotely and will require the traditional use of the key to unlock and start the vehicle.

Battery Replacement

    Smart keys function by emitting a radio frequency to the vehicle, requiring batteries as their source of power. Toyota smart keys remain dormant or powered off until they receive an electrical ping from the vehicle that prompts the key to send a signal back to the vehicle. Theoretically, the battery power of the smart key would only be used when in the process of entering or operating the vehicle. However, numerous electrical devices such as cell phones and Bluetooth devices transmit electrical pings. When a smart key is near other devices that emit pings, the smart key does not remain dormant and uses small amounts of battery power. Over time, the battery power will diminish in the smart key, requiring battery replacement. The more your key is around other electrical devices, the more frequently it will require battery replacement.

Smart Key Replacement

    Smart keys are unique to each Toyota vehicle that they are programmed to unlock. A Toyota smart key could not unlock another Toyota vehicle, as the keys are unique to each vehicle, just like standard keys. When a smart key is programmed, the key and the vehicle must both be adjusted and tuned to the same radio frequency. When replacing a smart key, the replacement process is not the same as with traditional keys. A vehicle owner can expect a large bill and a trip to the Toyota dealership to replace a smart key. To replace one, the vehicle requires reprogramming at a dealership and then the new smart key must be programmed to match the frequency and codes of the vehicle. For a smart key replacement, a vehicle owner can expect to pay a few hundred dollars to a Toyota dealership or Toyota authorized service mechanic.

Read here..

Wednesday, February 19, 2014

How to Install a Timing Chain on a Toyota 22 RE

The 22R-E engine appears in several Toyota vehicles with front-wheel drive from 1983 to 1995. This engine designation indicates the engine is the 22nd generation in the R engine family and has electronic fuel injection. The Toyota 22RE engine uses a metal timing chain to keep the crankshaft synchronized with the camshaft. The most critical part of this procedure is aligning the timing chain when you install it on the crankshaft and camshaft sprockets.

Instructions

    1

    Disconnect the cylinder head bolts with a socket wrench. Insert a pry bar under each end of the cylinder head, and caully pry it away from the engine block. Lift the cylinder head off the mounting dowels, and remove it from the vehicle. Discard the cylinder head gasket, and remove any traces of the cylinder head gasket from the engine block with a gasket scraper.

    2

    Place a container under the radiator, and open the drain hole to drain the coolant from the radiator into the container. Replace the drain plug, and store the coolant for later use. Remove the mounting bolts from the radiator with a socket wrench, and detach the radiator from the vehicle.

    3

    Disconnect the oil pan with a socket wrench. Detach the drive belt for the power steering pumps and air conditioning compressor from their respective pulleys, if your vehicle is so equipped. Remove the drive belt for the water pump. Disconnect the cooling fan and its clutch from the engine.

    4

    Make matching marks on the crankshaft pulley and the crankshaft to ensure you can correctly install the pulley later. Hold the crankshaft in place with a counter-holding bar, and remove the central mounting bolt on the crankshaft pulley with a socket wrench. Detach the pulley from the crankshaft with a gear puller.

    5

    Disconnect the water bypass pipe from the engine block, and remove the adjusting bar for the cooling fan belt. Remove the bracket for the power steering pump with a socket wrench, if your vehicle is so equipped. Disconnect the water outlet hose from the engine.

    6

    Remove the mounting bolts from the cover for the timing chain with a socket wrench, and disconnect the cover. Detach the timing chain from the crankshaft sprocket, and remove the timing chain from the camshaft with the camshaft sprocket still attached. Remove the timing chain and camshaft sprocket from the vehicle. Detach the splines for the oil pump and the crankshaft sprocket from the crankshaft.

    7

    Rotate the crankshaft so that its key points straight up, and slide the crankshaft sprocket onto the crankshaft. Mount the new timing chain to the crankshaft sprocket so the single bright link on the new timing chain aligns with the timing mark on the crankshaft sprocket. Mount the new timing chain to the camshaft sprocket so the link between the two bright links on the timing chain aligns with the timing mark on the camshaft sprocket.

    8

    Turn the camshaft sprocket counterclockwise by hand to take up the slack in the timing chain. Connect the splines for the oil pump onto the crankshaft with a bearing installing tool. Install new gaskets for the timing chain cover, and place the cover into position. Tighten the 8mm mounting bolts on the timing chain cover to 9 foot-pounds with a torque wrench. Tighten the 10 mm mounting bolts to 29 foot-pounds.

    9

    Connect the alternator adjusting bar to the timing chain cover, and tighten its mounting bolts to 9 foot-pounds with a torque wrench. Attach the water outlet pipe from the heater to the engine. Mount the crankshaft pulley to the crankshaft, using the marks you made in step four as a guide. Hold the pulley in place with the counter-holding tool, and tighten the central mounting bolt for the crankshaft pulley to 116 foot-pounds.

    10

    Attach the drive belt for the air conditioning unit, if your vehicle is so equipped. Connect the pulley for the water pump with a socket wrench. Install the air conditioning bracket and compressor if you removed them earlier. Connect the belt for the power steering pump, if your vehicle is so equipped. Install the oil pan.

    11

    Install the radiator, and ill it with coolant. Replace the cylinder head.

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Wednesday, February 5, 2014

How to Change the Timing Chain on a 1988 Toyota 22RE

The 22RE engine is a four-cylinder 2.4-liter engine that Toyota manufactured from 1983 to 1995. It appears in a variety of Toyota vehicles during this period, such as the Toyota Pickup. The 22RE has a single overhead camshaft, and uses a timing chain to connect the crankshaft with the camshaft. The procedure for replacing the timing chain for a 22RE is generally the same for all vehicles from 1983 to 1988.

Instructions

    1

    Disconnect the cylinder head with a socket wrench. Drain the coolant from the radiator, and store it for later use. Remove the radiator from the vehicle.

    2

    Remove the alternator from the engine with a socket wrench. Disconnect the oil pan. Remove the mounting bolts, drive belt and hoses from the air pump, if your vehicle is so equipped. Disconnect the air pump and its bracket from the engine.

    3

    Disconnect the water pump assembly and cooling fan from the vehicle with a socket wrench. Remove the mounting bolt for the crankshaft pulley, and detach the pulley with a gear puller.

    4

    Disconnect the water bypass line and the fan belt adjusting bar. Detach the outlet line from the heater. Remove the mounting bolts for the timing chain cover with a socket wrench, and disconnect the cover.

    5

    Detach the timing chain from the damper of the camshaft, and detach the timing chain from the camshaft sprocket. Remove the camshaft sprocket from the camshaft. Pull the crankshaft sprocket from the crankshaft. Disconnect the spline for the oil pump from the crankshaft.

    6

    Rotate the crankshaft clockwise until the key on the crankshaft points straight up, and mount the crankshaft sprocket onto the crankshaft. Place the new timing chain on the crankshaft sprocket, and align the single bright link on the timing chain with the crankshaft sprockets timing mark.

    7

    Place the timing chain on the camshaft sprocket. Mount the camshaft sprocket to the camshaft so that the camshafts timing mark is between the two bright links on the timing chain.

    8

    Install the oil pump spline to the crankshaft. Mount the timing chain gasket to the engine block, and take up the slack in the timing chain by turning the camshaft sprocket counterclockwise with a socket wrench.

    9

    Connect the timing chain cover, and use a torque wrench to tighten the 8mm bolts to 9 foot-pounds. Torque the 10mm mounting bolts to 29 foot-pounds. Coat the gaskets for the timing chain cover and oil pan with sealer. Connect the fan belt adjusting bar, and tighten its bolt to 9 foot-pounds.

    10

    Attach the water bypass line. Mount the pulley onto the crankshaft, and tighten the mounting bolt. Connect the water pump and compressor for the air conditioner with a socket wrench. Install the oil pan, radiator and cylinder head in that order.

    11

    Replace the oil and coolant to their proper levels. Start the vehicle and check for fluid leaks.

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Saturday, December 21, 2013

How to Replace the 1986 Toyota Van Fuel Pump

The Toyota MasterAce is a van that Toyota marketed as the Toyota Van in North American markets. This vehicle was available from 1982 to 1989. All versions of the Toyota Van in the United States had fuel-injected engines. The fuel pump in the 1986 Toyota Van is attached to the fuel sending unit on the fuel tank. This requires you to remove the fuel tank before you can replace the fuel pump.

Instructions

    1

    Remove the cable from the batterys negative terminal with a socket wrench. This will prevent you from starting the engine accidentally while you are replacing the fuel pump. Place one end of a hose into the fuel tank and the other end into a container for gasoline. Siphon as much fuel as possible from the tank.

    2

    Raise the vehicle with a jack and support it on jack stands. Disconnect the fuel lines and electrical wiring from the fuel tank. Support the fuel tank with a jack and disconnect the mounting bolts for the fuel tank with a socket wrench. Detach the fuel tank from the vehicle and move the fuel tank to your work area.

    3

    Disconnect the mounting screws for the field pump on the fuel tank with a socket wrench. Remove the mounting plate for the fuel pump. Lift the fuel pump assembly out of the fuel tank.

    4

    Pull the fuel pump away from its lower mounting bracket. Disconnect the nuts on the fuel pump with a socket wrench. Detach the electrical wiring from the fuel pump and fuel lines from the fuel pump. Remove and discard the rubber gasket. Release the retaining clip for the fuel pump filter and detach the filter from the fuel pump.

    5

    Install the new fuel pump and gasket by performing steps 2 through 4 in reverse order. Fill the tank with fuel. Connect the negative battery terminal with a socket wrench. Start the engine and check for fuel leaks.

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Wednesday, December 18, 2013

How to Install Rancho 5000 Series Shocks on a 1998 Toyota Pickup

Rancho Suspension makes a wide variety of different types of shock absorbers, including a model called the Rancho 5000. These shocks are designed for light trucks and SUVs, like the 1998 Toyota pickup. If you own a 1998 Toyota pickup and your rear shocks are worn out, you can replace them with a set of Rancho 5000 shocks. This takes just under an hour to do with a few tools.

Instructions

    1

    Put a set of wheel chocks around the Toyotas front wheels. Put the jack under the rear axle, and lift up the axle and rear end of the truck until the wheels are off of the ground. Put jack stands underneath the axle, and remove the jack.

    2

    Remove the bolt and washer connecting the shocks to the axle with an open-end wrench. Remove the bolt and washer connecting the shocks to the frame with an open-end wrench. Slide the shock off of the mounting studs on the frame and the axle with your hands.

    3

    Slide the Rancho 5000 shocks onto the mounting studs on the frame and axle. Install the bolt and washer on the top of the shock with an open-end wrench. Install the bolt and washer to the bottom of the shock with an open-end wrench.

    4

    Pick up the axle with the jack and take out the rear jack stands. Lower the jack so the rear wheels are on the ground. Remove the wheel chocks.

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Sunday, November 24, 2013

How to Fix Rust Out of a Toyota Frame

How to Fix Rust Out of a Toyota Frame

Depending on the climate where it is driven, your Toyotas frame may have rust damage. If caught early enough, preventative measures can slow the rusts progress and delay the need for extensive repairs. If the rust damage is significant, it can lead to failures in suspension and steering components, causing the vehicle to be unsafe. It is critical to inspect the frame carefully to determine the extent of repairs needed. This typically requires old sections of the frame to be reinforced with new pieces of metal. If the amount of rust damage is severe, the best choice may be to completely replace the section of frame, taking care to reinforce the joint. If you are not comfortable using a MIG welder, this repair is best left to a professional. But if you have the necessary skill and safety equipment for MIG welding, you can accomplish the job.

Instructions

Remove Old Rust

    1

    Spread the naval jelly on any rusted parts of the frame. Wait 5 to 10 minutes. Rinse with fresh water. Take care not to let the naval jelly remain on painted surfaces as it will remove the paint.

    2

    Assess the severity of the damage. Coat the area in rust-inhibiting paint if the rust has not gone completely through the frame metal and is not at any bolts or welded joints on the frame.

    3

    Check the repair regularly. This process may need to be repeated periodically to prevent the rust from returning or spreading.

Welding Reinforcements

    4

    Determine the appropriate repair --- welding a piece of angle bar to the existing frame metal or cutting the frame metal and replacing it completely. If the frame is compromised in many locations, replacing the entire section is likely preferable. Frame sections can be sourced from a Toyota dealership, or an auto dismantler may be able to locate a used one in good condition for less cost. Alternatively, hire a professional welder to fabricate a new frame section using the old one as a template if the vehicle sees heavy use, such as pickup truck.

    5

    Measure the section of frame to be reinforced and use the grinder to cut a length of angle bar. Add 3 to 4 inches on either side of the bar to overlap the frame. For example, if a 2-inch section of frame has rusted through, the reinforcement should be 8 to 12 inches long. Features of the frame may dictate variations to this, but it is better to overlap as much undamaged metal as possible.

    6

    Clamp the section of angle bar to the frame where it will be welded and mark any bolt holes or other features. If the reinforcement is in the area of a welded seam, it may be necessary to cut off the welded metal (such as a shackle) and reweld it to the reinforcement. Measure the location of the component carefully to ensure it goes back in the same place. It may also be necessary to trim the reinforcement to fit around features of the frame that to not need reinforcement.

    7

    Remove the clamps and drill the necessary holes in the reinforcement angle bar. Use the grinder to trim off any metal necessary for a good fit. Test-fit the reinforcement again to ensure the holes are placed properly and the piece fits flush against the existing metal frame. Use the wire brush wheel on the grinder to clean up the metal surface on the frame in preparation for welding.

    8

    Weld the reinforcement in place using the MIG welder. Reweld any other components such as suspension shackles. Paint the repaired area with rust-inhibiting paint and follow the above directions for periodically inspecting and refreshing the paint. Repeat this process for any other areas that need repair.

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Monday, November 18, 2013

How to Reset the Computer in a 2001 Toyota Tundra

How to Reset the Computer in a 2001 Toyota Tundra

You can reset the computer on your 01 Toyota Tundra right from your home driveway or garage. The Tundra, like most modern vehicles, is equipped with an On-Board Diagnostics (OBD) computer that reads trouble codes sent to it from sensors positioned throughout the vehicle. These trouble codes illuminate in the form of warning or service lights on your instrument panel. Once you have the Tundra serviced or repaired, you will need to reset the computer so that it can continue to do its work. Resetting the computer will also shut off any service and warning lights on the dash.

Instructions

    1

    Locate the port underneath the steering column that has the same size and shape as the OBD code scanners connective end. Plug the OBD code scanner into this port. Dont force it in, though, or you could bend the pins.

    2

    Put the key in the ignition and turn it to the "II" position, taking care not to start the engine. The OBD code scanner will power itself on and read the trouble codes.

    3

    Locate the "delete" button on the scanner and select it. Depending on the manufacturer of the scanner, it may have a different label, such as "erase codes." When you select it, it will reset the computer and shut off the lights.

    4

    Unplug the scanner and turn on the engine. Check the instrument panel to verify that all service and warning lights have shut off.

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Thursday, November 14, 2013

How to Reset a Toyota Engine Light

How to Reset a Toyota Engine Light

You can reset the check engine light in your Toyota using an On-Board Diagnostics II scanner tool. When the light appears on your dashboard, have a mechanic look at your vehicle and fix any problems. The light can then be reset and turned off. Some people just disconnect the battery, but this will wipe out and reset the memory of other critical functions in your On-Board Diagnostics computer.

Instructions

    1

    Look to the right side of the hood release handle on the drivers side of the Toyota and find a port. Plug the OBD II scanner tool into this port and turn the key in the ignition to the "II" position.

    2

    Press the scroll buttons on the scanner to go through the items on the menu. Find a command that says "Erase," and then press it.

    3

    Watch for the main menu to appear, or wait until you receive a scanner message reading "Command Sent." Unplug the OBD II scanner tool and turn on the engine. Inspect the dashboard to determine if the check engine light is off.

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Sunday, November 10, 2013

How to Repair a Toyota Siennas Driver Side Handle

How to Repair a Toyota Siennas Driver Side Handle

The handles on the Toyota Sienna van break frequently. The handle is made out of pot metal that is not as strong as steel or other metals. If you forget to unlock your vehicle or the door is frozen in the winter time and you pull on the door handle, it will break. Sometimes the handle will break from normal wear or for no reason at all. To replace the door handle on a Toyota Sienna Van is not so hard to do, just time consuming.

Instructions

    1
    Inner door panel
    Inner door panel

    Remove the door panels. Pull up the armrest, that will uncover two large Phillips screws and take them out. Pull off the circular cover near the mirror. Lift up the window control panel near the front, and take off the connector and panel. Remove the lower panel and disconnect the light when you get the panel off.

    2
    Door handle with bezel
    Door handle with bezel

    Remove the screw from the inner handle bezel. It will not come off yet. To remove the lock handle bezel, pry out the top and bottom of the handle. To remove the bezel, push it to the inside toward the door handle and push off. Remove the top part of the door panel .

    3
    10 mm bolts
    10 mm bolts

    Remove the plastic wind cover from the door. Take the black plastic cover off the door jamb. This will reveal a 10 mm bolt. Remove it, but dont drop it inside the hole in the door. Pull back the yellow clip that releases the lock opening and the rod to the handle. Inside the large hole you will see two10 mm bolts, a right and left. Remove the right 10 mm bolt. The left handle bolt holds the lock cylinder in place, it can be removed once the handle is removed. Move the handle to the left and pull it out. Remove the lock cylinder.

    4
    Lock cylinder
    Lock cylinder

    Place the lock cylinder in the new handle and install the 10 mm bolt. Insert your new handle in the door and attach the two10 mm bolts and tighten. Replace the lock and handle release rod and secure the yellow clip. Check the door to see if it opens and closes. Replace the black plastic cover in the door jamb.

    5
    1/4 inch tool set
    1/4 inch tool set

    Replace the plastic wind cover to the inside of the door. Plug in the light and replace both door bottom and top panels, being sure that you line up the plastic clips to the matching holes in the door. Take the heel of your hand push all clips all the way in.

    6

    Replace all the Phillips screws in the door panel including the two under the armrest. Replace the armrest and the inside handle cover and install the screws.

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Thursday, October 24, 2013

How to Remove the Window Crank Handle in a 1999 Toyota Corolla

The 1999 Toyota Corolla comes standard with manual (roll-up) windows; power windows are optional. If you need to remove the cars door panel, youll need to first remove the window crank handle. A special tool is required to do this. The window crank handle is snapped on with a small metal clip, sometimes called a "C" clip because of its shape.

Instructions

    1

    Purchase a window crank handle tool from any auto parts store. You can also order one online. The tool shouldnt cost you more than $10.

    2

    Grab the Corollas window crank handle by the knob you use to roll the window down. Gently pull this part of the crank handle away from the door. Behind it, between the door panel and the crank, youll see a small gasket. Insert your tool in between the crank handle and the gasket. Insert it on the side the knob protrudes from.

    3

    Push the tool gently while still pulling on the handle. Youll hear a snapping sound as the clip pops out.

    4

    Pull the window crank handle straight away from the door panel.

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