Can you replace the camshaft key on a '98 4cyl 4Runner?
 

Yeah, so, long story short (I guess my number was up) my crankshaft bolt loosened last night on the highway. All the belts stopped moving. Harmonic Balancer is toast, Engine overheated but still runs... now what?

The nose of the crankshaft doesn't look terrible... but the key is ground down to a nubbin. Looks like most of the damage was to the HB pulley. Going to have it towed to a shop.

Question 1: Are we looking at engine replacement or can you recover if the damage is to the key and the HB?

Question 2: Would you walk away from a '98 4wd 4 cyl with 137k on it if it is going to require $2-5k worth of work?

Thanks for your advice.

Dino

As we say in Boston - "what a pissah!"

The key can be replaced, it's just a Woodruff key that fits into a slot. If you're lucky the crankshaft won't be damaged. Even if the key slot is slightly damaged a bigger size key can be filed down to give a tight fit.

Thanks for your advice - fingers crossed.

How hard is it to do a key replacement? Have you come across a DIY that shows how? Kinda tight in there unless I remove the whole radiator, etc.

It's definitely an all day job, you need to get down to step 25 on this list. And make sure you replace the timing belt, even if it's fairly new and looks OK.
http://www.4x4wire.com/toyota/maintenance/timing_belt/

Edit, just noticed yours is a 4 banger, forget that write up, it's for a V6

If you are located near Fresno ca I have the woodruff key u need. Dealer here told me
Hb pulley was 330 new.

Thanks for the offer - I am in Boston so a bit far away. Do you have to disassemble the whole front of the motor to get to the key??

FYI harmonic balancer is $105 from Rock Auto.

I think if you just pull the rad to give yourself some room you'll be alright. It's going to be a bit of a pain to get but...take a deep breath and have at it.