85RunnerSR5

I have an '85 4Runner SR5 with a 22RE. I just recently replaced the head gasket. I had the head machined, valves ground, installed a new cam, and new rocker arms. I also replaced the timing chain and oil pump earlier this year. I decided to do this because at around 1900 RPM it starts making a rattling noise and it sounds like its coming from the top end at the very back of the engine (and the fact that it has 210,000 miles and has not been on the road in years). It also sounds noticeable when you go to shift gears. I did all the work myself (except for the head machining and assembling) and I used an online repair manual that I have access to at my college and my Haynes manual. I had a local professional machine shop do the head work. To my knowledge, I have done everything correctly when it comes to teardown and reassembly. I have adjusted the valves twice to specs (.008 in. for the intake, .012 in. for the exhaust). It still makes a rattling noise. The timing chain is tight and the guides are brand new. The gears are aligned perfectly. I started getting familiar with the 22r last year when I got this 4Runner. I haven't done any major engine work to a Toyota until now, so I'm new to this. If anyone can help me, I would appreciate it. Thanks!

Toyota Pete

Does it sound like a valve(s) out of adjust? Try readjusting the valves to .007 and .011 hot. I know its not much, but it can make a lot of difference. The only other thing that comes to mind is sometimes if you get a cheap valve cover gasket and you tighten the hold down bolts too tight the rockers will actually hit the cover. If you do the valves again make sure the adjust is snug so the feeler guage has some resistance moving it. Good luck, keep us posted

85RunnerSR5

It does sound like a valve issue to me. I was told it could be a connecting rod bearing or piston pin. I have adjusted them like that also. I have heard about the valve cover issue. It has a new gasket and the valve cover is snug, not too tight. Thanks for your input!

forwardtocharis

Not trying to sound stupid, but are you sure it's in the top end? Sounds like something I would expect from the tranny/clutch/flywheel area