I have a 1997 4Runner Limited with the 3.4l engine (2WD). I need to change the oil pan gasket and the Haynes manual says I need to remove the timing belt and crankshaft pulley. I don't think that's true but wanted to know if you guys knew for sure before I unscrew the other 15 screws and find out that I'm screwed.

Thanks In Advance.

 

I can't image why you'd need to remove them. I've had my 3.4 oil pan off and didn't need to. The Haynes manual sucks BTW, I found complete sections that were misprinted in one I had. You'd be much better off with one of the on-line FSM, even if the year wasn't quite right.

Here's a link to some:
http://www.tacomaterritory.com/forum...ad.php?t=59089

 

No, I don't think you need to. But, to get it off, I am pretty sure you have to take off the strainer thing to get the pan out from the truck.

 

No, you absoultely don't need to if you're just changing the oil pan gasket.
If you want to change the oil pump, you'll need to remove the timing belt and crank pulley though.

There are some 3.4L teardown pics in my thread here (although none of the oil pan):
http://www.ultimateyota.com/index.ph...6&topic=2241.0

 

You guys are second to none. I was about to buy some garage floor cleaner and let her leak until she broke. LOL

 

thanks for the link goat