🔧 Timing Drive - Timing Belt Not Equipped

Your Tacoma 2.7L does not use a timing belt. It uses a timing chain, which is designed to last much longer and normally is not a scheduled maintenance item. If you're hearing chain noise, have a cam/crank correlation code, or suspect internal engine wear, the repair is a timing chain service instead of a belt replacement.

Difficulty Level: Advanced | Estimated Time: 8-14 hours

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⚠️ Safety & Precautions

• Do not start parts removal without confirming the engine is at top dead center if you proceed with timing chain work.
• Battery disconnect is required before major engine-front disassembly.
• Timing work requires exact cam/crank alignment. Mistakes can cause engine damage.
• Use proper support if the engine mount or accessory drive components must be removed.

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🔧 Required Tools

You'll need the following tools for this repair:

• Metric socket set
• Metric wrench set
• Torque wrench
• Breaker bar
• Harmonic balancer puller (specialty)
• Timing chain service tools (specialty)
• Jack stands
• Floor jack
• Drain pan
• Safety glasses
• Mechanic gloves

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🔩 Required Parts

HowToo sells all the parts you need for this repair:

• Timing chain kit - Qty: 1
• Timing chain guides - Qty: 1 set
• Timing chain tensioner - Qty: 1
• Front engine cover sealant - Qty: 1
• Front crankshaft seal - Qty: 1
• Valve cover gasket - Qty: 1
• Engine oil - Qty: 1 service fill
• Engine oil filter - Qty: 1
• Coolant - Qty: 1 drain and refill

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📋 Before You Begin

• Park on level ground and set the parking brake.
• Disconnect the negative battery cable before starting.
• Drain engine oil and coolant if front cover removal requires it.
• Rotate the engine by hand only, never with the starter, once timing components are exposed.

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🔨 Step-by-Step Instructions

Follow these steps in order:

Step 1: Disable power and prep the engine

• Use a 10mm wrench to disconnect the negative battery cable.
• Remove any splash shields and intake parts blocking access with the correct metric socket set.

Step 2: Remove front drive components

• Use the metric socket set and breaker bar to remove accessory drive components and the crank pulley.
• Use a harmonic balancer puller (specialty) if the pulley is stuck.
• Torque to factory specification during reassembly.

Step 3: Remove the front cover

• Use the metric socket set to remove the timing cover bolts.
• Carefully break the seal and remove the cover without damaging the mating surfaces.
• Keep dirt out of the engine.

Step 4: Set engine timing marks

• Use a breaker bar on the crankshaft bolt to rotate the engine by hand.
• Align the crankshaft and camshaft timing marks exactly per factory positions.
• Do not rotate the engine after the chain is removed unless instructed by the service procedure.

Step 5: Replace timing components

• Use the metric socket set to remove the tensioner, guides, and chain.
• Install the new chain, guides, and tensioner from the timing chain kit.
• Torque to factory specification.

Step 6: Reinstall covers and accessories

• Apply fresh front engine cover sealant as specified.
• Reinstall the front cover, crank seal, pulley, and accessories using the torque wrench.
• Torque to factory specification.

Step 7: Refill and verify

• Refill engine oil and coolant.
• Reconnect the battery with a 10mm wrench.
• Start the engine and check for leaks, noise, and warning lights.

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✅ After Repair

• Verify smooth idle and no rattling from the front of the engine.
• Check for oil or coolant leaks after warm-up.
• Scan for pending or stored engine codes if the check engine light appears.

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💰 DIY vs Shop Cost

Shop Cost: $1,500-$3,200 (parts + labor)

DIY Cost: $350-$900 (parts only)

You Save: $1,150-$2,300 by doing it yourself!

Shop labor rates vary but typically run $100-$150/hour. This repair takes a shop approximately 8-14 hours.

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🎯 Ready to get started?

HowToo makes it easy: same-day/2-day shipping on every part, plus all the tools and specialty tools you need! Check out the parts and tools sections below to add everything to your cart.