After almost loosing my mind to the 4 bottom crossover nuts that I FINALLY broke loose with a 9 foot extension and a u jointed socekt..lol..I managed to pull the heads with the exhaust manifolds bolted on. My question is that is it ok to re-install them once the heads come back from the machine shop with the exhaust manifolds bolted back on??? Other than heavier than a BEE I am thinking maybe someone could advise on such. It is now after 5pm and time to crack one....been a long tear down...
Thank you!

 

I replaced head gaskets on my 3VZE 5 years ago, it was easier getting the heads on w/o ex manifold on (my opinion). BUT… make damn sure the ss exhaust crossover pipe is in place before installing heads. Not enough clearance between firewall and heads to install once heads are bolted down!!! There are panels that unbolt from lower fender wells that give some access to exhaust, starter, ect.. Good Luck!

 

I can def see how it would be much easier to put the heads in with out the x on but I looked tonight and did not really see any access panels to kick off but am def open to doing the thing that saves me time and PITA.

Hey, BTW, what is the smaller little manifold in the back by the firewall and where might I find a good exploded view of it? I did break one of the sensors removing the brittle DAD GUM wiring and need to ID and find the hoses and that sensor.
Thanks a lot for the info and I appreciate the good intel so I can get this done the best way so I can get another 100 grand out of this 3.0.
M

 

To remove/reinstall the crossover bolts, all you need is the right tool:

You can do this with the heads bolted on, no swearing required.


My money says you broke the TVV; everyone does. The part just isn't tough enough to last 20 years!

Also known as the Bi-Metallic Vacuum Switching (BMVS) http://www.toyotapartsoverstock.com/...092505047.html)
It connects the Evap canister to engine vacuum when warm enough; that drains the vapors from the canister.

 

I really appreciate the detailed labeled pic. It's a HUGE help!
Too beat down from 12 hours at work today but I am dropping the heads off at a local machine shop in the am that was highly rated as a good shop. Waiting on parts from 3 our 4 parts houses.
M

 

Got the X back on the machined heads on the bench and dropped the heads in no problem. Was much easier IMHO than trying to get the X off and on with heads installed.
This chapter has closed....for now.

 

Just re attached the crossover, exhaust pipe and 2 tranny mount bolts. DONE for a bit. That was a B itch.