My power antenna broke and I tried to access the power unit behind the right front wheel. How do I get the plastic shield off? There are some plastic buttons holding it on and I can't figure out how to remove them. Also I have running boards not molded into the fender flares. How do I remove the front cap that wraps around the front inner fender. I removed the 2 screws inside the wheel well but it still will not come off.
Also I need to replace the timing belt (V6) 117,000 miles what other items should be replaced while doing this repair and about how long will it take? If I start Saturday morning will I be done by Sunday afternoon? This is the first time I am attemping to change the timing belt.

Thanks for your help. Jeff

 

You just pry the shield off,
4runner has a timing chain not a belt. I have 160 and I havent changed it yet.

 

Do you replace the plastic buttons then with new? Can I get them from Autozone? The closest Toyota dealer is 40 miles away. Jeff

 

Mine didnt break, but if you do have to replace them definitely autozone NOT the dealer.

 

Thanks again, mine happens to be black as well. BTW my 4Runner has the rear end squats. I know of the recall and had that done but the rear is not level with the front. There was some one selling a leveling kit, do you know who it was?

Jeff

 

the recall was on the 96. Mine doesnt sag but depending on how much it sags you can just purchase a spacer lift to even it out. About $85. A leveling kit $$$$

 

Where do you get a spacer lift?

 

jeff,

please check your PM box

bob

 

My '96 3.4 V6 4runner definitely has a timing belt. Search timing belts for more info. I pried carefully on the button that I needed to remove to get to the antenna motor-you don't have to take the whole shield down, just enough to get to what you need-and reused it. Mostly it was bolts, 10mm if I remember right.

 

3rd Gen v6's have a timing belt not a chain. When you change the belt, also replace all of the drive belts and the water pump. As for time, it depends on how mechanically inclined you are.

 

oops didnt read it was a V6, my bad, i was thinking of my 4 cyl