Should I adjust my valves?

Recently purchased 3.4 Taco with 146k, been doing all sorts of maintenance and I'm wondering if I should do a valve adjustment. I'm quite sure it's never been done on this truck. The truck runs great, just wanting to future proof, thanks.

 

It would be wise to check them first. It is a shim over bucket design so the only adjustment you can perform is buying and installing the correct height shims.

 

If I check them, do I need to replace my valve cover gaskets?

 

my 3RD gen Runner has 215k, never adjusted, any ticking noise is injectors most likely.

Had the heads off year or so ago, pulled the buckets and inspected, nothing of concern, put everything back where it was, rock on. runs well.

you're better of replacing them, yes

 

anyone know a good tut for doing this on your own? for the 5vzfe

 

youtube has a few

 

Check the clearances first. Done like the old days, with a feeler gauge.
If they are all within spec, no need to attempt to do an adjustment.

 

For tutorials, do some deep searching here and you'll find tips, like Dirty Pool's use of compressed air to free the shims. There is also some material on Youtube, but not as much as you might expect, or want.

I have a 2.4 (120k) and 3.4 (230k) and recently did valve check/adjustments on both, which was my first and second time. I found it difficult at first, then worked out a technique. I had a vehicle available while waiting for shims, and I could close the hood when my frustration level spiked.

In the FSM diagrams, there are black diamond symbols that indicate which parts (gaskets) are non-reusable. Stick to that.

Another note: I have a mechanic that I like and use here in town. Before I tackle projects, I take a box of fresh baked goodies to his shop. He sees me and laughs, then fills my head with great information.