96 Tacoma Regular Cab :: 2.7L :: Newbie Here, Laundry List of ToDo's

Hi All.

Recently purchased a 96 Tacoma w/ 56k from Craigslist. The inspection ran out last month and there are a few things that I need to do before I'm ready to take it in for a new sticker. So far, i'm loving this site. So much information and great users. I'm not very mechanical (yet) just haven't really spent much time working on cars/trucks but want to take on a new hobby and skill.

Here are the issues that I'm faced with:

1. DTC - P0336 Crankshaft Position Sensor A Circuit Range/Performance. The truck runs and doesn't stall or misfire so I'm thinking this may be a result of another issue. I think I saw somewhere that this error may be thrown due to issues with the Timing Chain.
Any thoughts?

2. When making right turns, the front driver side tire will rub on the wheel well. Left turns do not rub, so I'm really hoping this isn't an issue with the frame. 31" Tires on stock wheels.

3. Need new Headlights (foggy and dim)

4. Would like to put some rust protector on the frame? Any suggestions?

5. Install new spark plugs.

6. Eventually, put a nice sounding muffler on it.

Thanks for your input!

 

IMO:
1)Have code deleted and if it comes back replace the sensor. My 98 2.7 had 200k miles on it when I sold it and no timing chain problems. I have made the mistake of not listening to what the computer was saying and ended up spending more money than needed.
2)Really hard to tell without knowing exactly where the tire is rubbing, could be something simple. Is it rubbing on the frame, inner fender or front bumper?
3)Your truck has sealed beam headlights, very cheap and easy to replace.
4)Definetly make sure you protect your frame, at least remove any rust and spray paint it with rust-o-leum or some under coating.
5)Go with ngks from the dealer.
6)Try a flowmaster, its a 4cyl you dont want it loud but having a nice tone isnt bad.
7)Post some pics!!!

 

@Firefighter

Thanks man!

So I managed to replace the CPS and unfortunately the code still will not clear. Although after the swap, the code will clear for about 20 seconds (before it wouldn't clear at all).

Other than that...

I've been able to fix the tire rubbing by pulling on the chrome bumper so that the apron is no longer extending into the wheel well.
Also
- replaced the windshield washer pump and jar
- replaced spark plugs
- installed new lamps and corner lights

I will be cleaning the throttle body and checking the Engine Coolant Temp sensor as another member indicated that may be affecting the high idling i'm getting.

I'm not sure what else do for the P0336 error. I'll probably take to a place that can read the ecm a littler deeper.

And, I'll get some pics up as soon as it warms up and I can wash the damn thing for once.

 

Things are going well up to this point.

- Reinstalling the distributor at TDC for cylinder 1 fixed the p0336 DTC.

Also, I've done the following:
- Golf Ball MOD
- Deck Plate MOD (4")
- New Spark Plugs (Denso)
- New Spark Plug Wires (NGK)
- New ECT Sensor
- New IAC Valve
- New PCV Valve

Now that the engine bay is taken care of, I'm moving onto the wheels.

I'm hearing this screeching coming from both front wheels. Both have lockers. What would be the best way to troubleshoot the cause? I'm guessing either rotors are warped or maybe new bearings are needed? Also, the truck shakes at about 55mph. I'm guessing universal joints?

Are there any tutorials on changing out the U-joints or fixing the screeching?

Thanks.

Here are some pics.