The truck wants some attention again. 180k miles. 1994 extended cab pickup. Running crappy, overheating. One massive event with a 'Hollywood' amount of white exhaust out the tailpipe.

I am reading about the ARP studs.

Planning on buying the OEM Valve Grind Gasket kit, 04112-65018. Guessing that these head gaskets are not MLS.

My question is about installing these with the engine in the truck. Chasing the holes in the block with a tap is a no brainer, getting the studs so they thread in smoothly should be no problem. The brake vacuum booster looks like it may get in the way with head installation if the studs are installed.Hopefully someone who has done this can share their experience.


Guessing that these head gaskets in the kit are not MLS.

My question is about installing these with the engine in the truck. Chasing the holes in the block with a tap is a no brainer, getting the studs so they thread in smoothly should be no problem. The brake vacuum booster looks like it may get in the way with head installation if the studs are installed. How is installing these studs with the engine in the truck?


I got this truck with 35k miles. #6 has been on the low side (compression) since way back. It has been reliable, so I have just driven it. Have not tested since the overheating and crappy running. Just going with a blown head gasket at minimum.

Timing belt, etc, is also due right now. I did that at 95k.

Also, does anyone know the Toyota part number for the valve adjusting tool/s? Looks like it is time to learn about adjusting valves using shims. Any tips / warnings on valve adjustments? I have adjusted tons of valve adjustment studs with feeler gauges.

Not looking forward to this, but I am looking forward to my truck running well again.

Thanks in advance.