how does this happen?
replaced stock vafm then reset timing to stock.
removed jumper, started, ran for few minutes then i see this.

 

It was just its time to go?
You had put some weight on it and a crack developed?
Something exploded inside the cap?

 

That's pretty not awesome. Are the insides of the cap ok. See any more unusual damage in there?

 

insides appear, ok, cap and rotor otw.
just don't want to do it again. i get 20 year old plastic n what not, but OE(operator error not orig equip) not what i go for and want to learn if i rooked a step somewhere.

thanks

 

It really just looks like old tired plastic that gave up the ghost. Replace the cap and rotor and you'll likely be good to go.

 

Stuff happens

 

so no rookie error? there have been other "phanton" fails but it seems even OEM toyota parts don't last foreverever. the plastic is failing before sensors on my mine.

going to do cables and plugs, fgm. 90919 21528 toyota 3vze plug wires and 90919 01176 which seem to be K16R-U.

*Curious about the PK16R8 and PK 16TT for a 3vze with some breathing mods.
*Any other simple but potentially serious replacements I can work in that aren't too costly and in the vicinity?

thanks in advance and please correct any incorrect info:

 

Caps are a disposable part. Should be replaced every 50k miles at a minimum.

I'd go with NGK or 8mm Magnecor wires over OEM. NGK plugs are good to go and probably a better call as well. Depending on how often you want to service will determine your plug type.