My 2000 4Runner V6 is almost 90K and timing belt change is due. Thanks to the execellent tech write-up in this forum, I guess I am able to do it myself even though I feel a little nervous (It is very tough job, do you guys think so?).

Having searched the forum, I found that the toughest part of the job is to remove crankshaft pulley. The tech write-up mentions a homemade tool (1/2" thick steel plate with 5" square cut), and a snap on tool.

I can get the snap on tool without problem. However I am curious that if I have to make the similar homemade tool. Can I buy it anywhere? Can anybody shed light on this?

Thanks

What tool are you talking about? One to hold the crank pulley in place?

Do you have air tools? It will come right out with an impact gun.

If not, I've heard of people getting a long breaker bar, resting it against the frame, and bumping the starter, which will break the bolt free.

Yes, I am talking about the homemade tool in write-up (1/2" thick steel plate with 5" square cut) to hold the crank pulley in place. What you mean "bumping the starter"?
Thanks for your reply.

I do the breaker bar/frame method - just make sure the coils are disconnected. My hardest part was compressing the tensioner piston. To improvise the special tool, I used a small hydraulic port-a-power w/ padded jaws.

Post deleted by Kutter

Bumping the starter. Turn the key as if to start the vehicle, but only hold the key for a half second or so.

Thanks Adam F. I think I am not far away from doing it myself now.

Yesterday I called three Toyota stealers in my area. I was just curious about how much they charge for the service. Holy Cow! I got two exact quotes from two of the three stealers. The higher one is $786 (timing belt, water pump, and drive belts). The lower one is $710 (timing belt and water pump). The third stealer representative only gave me the quote on timing belt change for $289.99, then I was re-directed to one of their technicians for water pump quote. The line was busy... :

I know this thread is a little bit old, I beg forgiveness!!

If you do the starter bump trick, how do you get the bolt torqued correctly once you start reassembly? I did that trick on my 93 22RE pickup when I did the timing chain, but it is a 5 speed; I put it in gear and it didn't turn (thankfully my clutch was good).

My 4Runner is an automatic, how do I keep it from turning when I go back to tighten it??

You can put something like a big screwdriver between flywheel teeth and flywheel housing.
That is what I did when I replaced mine timing belt.