So how often should you get youre timing done I can't remember my dad ever doing it its a 85... Around how much does this cost?

 

Do you mean just set the timing??? I would not think you need to do it at all once it's set. Only if something has changed, cap, rotor, plugs??? Even at that I would not pay to have someone do it. Get a cheap light and have at it.

 

Which engine?

I usually end up doing my 22RE every 2 years just before taking it in for the smog check, since they check the timing as part of the test. Easy enough to DIY, pick up a timing light and go for it:
- http://www.4crawler.com/4x4/CheapTri...CheckConnector

 

its a 85 my dad said it was a 22r is that a re or are they different? I just thought the timing chain "or is it a belt" was something that needed to be done every so many miles...

 

Setting engine ignition timing is one thing, timing chain is another:
- http://www.4crawler.com/4x4/CheapTri...ingChain.shtml

Typically want to do that every 100K miles or so.

22R = carbed engine, 22RE = Electronic fuel injection.

 

How bad of problems can come from not doing you're timing chain I don't think my father has ever had it done. Oh yeah its EFI so It's the 22re then.

 

First symptom is a loose chain, then that wears out/breaks the chain guides that can let the chain chew a hole in the side of the water pump housing and instant milk shake (oil/coolant mix). And if the chain breaks, Mr. Valve says hello to Mr. Piston (i.e. an interference engine).

 

Something tells me that when Mr. Valve says hello to Mr. Piston that they don't really get along to well.

 

No it is more like Mr. Valve kicking Mr. Piston in the nuts.

 

Got it... Any estimates on how much this would cost at a shop?

 

AHHAHHAHAHHAHAH
Now thats funny right there!!!

 

I'm sure you can get a timing gun for under $30. It will take you 5 minutes, why pay someone??? Just be sure to jump the diag connections before you time it. http://www.troublecodes.net/Toyota/

But to answer your question about a shop doing it. I have not a clue. Never payed to have it done.