So I bought a troubled taco for a good price, hoping repair costs would come in less than the cost of a shining, trouble-free truck. I've got a few questions regarding mechanic diagnoses of current problems.

First, it's a 98 4x4 V6 3.4 5-speed with 100k miles. The main problem is that it is losing oil quickly, about 1qt every 400 miles. My first instinct was that it was burning oil, but I do not smell or see any evidence of burning. For that much of a loss, wouldn't I see black smoke or smell burning? The mechanic says it's a leak at the valve cover gasket. I saw it myself, and it is indeed leaking. My question is, can such a leak actually be responsible for such a massive loss of oil?

Another question: the tires and rims it came with don't fit the truck. On hard turns the tires rub the mud flaps. The tires are 31x10.50 R15, which you are SUPPOSED to be able to run on a 98 taco. The problem is the rims have a large negative offset. Question is, what are the proper rim specs to be able to run those tires?

Finally, the mechanic recommends changing out the fluids for front and rear differentials, transfer case and trans, as well as coolant flush, power steering flush, and brake flush. Is all of this actually necessary? The original owner hadn't done any of those things.

Thanks for any and all advice you can provide! And thanks for such an awesome forum!

 

If the valve covers are leaking, get them fixed and see what happens to the oil consumption/leaks.


Mechanic is giving good advice on the fluids. Also, the timing belt, water pump and related pats is due if it has not already been done. Spark plugs and wires, PCV valve (change the grommet when the valve covers are off along with the spark plug tube seals), air filter and fuel filter too.


Can you do any of the work yourself?

 

If your paying to have this work done it will get way over budget very fast.

There was a reason it was to cheap to buy.

If your losing a quart of oil in 400 miles unless the last owner pressure washed the vehicle often you have to have oil all over the engine or the bottom of the truck.

Yes all the fluids should be changed.

Just how many miles if the last owner was slacking on maintenance it might be time for timing belt service. Looking at paying for that some opt to get rid of the truck.

Time for new hoses and Belts??

What are the brakes like??