What the heck is this?

Can anyone identify this for me? The wife and I came back from a camping trip this weekend and when I restared the truck, this thing sounded like a valve snapped shut and then made a loud sucking and whining noise (much like my ex wife). The noise stopped after a few minutes (UNlike my ex wife), but it still concerns me a little.

It appears to have a hose that routes to the injector rail, so I assume it is a fuel system component.

 

I know, I know..... I fixed the pic link.

 

it's the Secondary Air injection pump that was added on late-model 2011s and 2012+ Tacomas. Basically added for more emissions control (thanks Kalifornia).

The sound was most-likely normal. This thing sucks in addtl. air and forces it into the catalytic converters in an attempt to warm them up quicker after startup. (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Secondary_air_injection)

I do know that it has caused a headache for aftermarket CAI manufacturers and takes up a shitload of space that could be used for moar mods!!!

 

Does your current wife have an noise problems? I'm sure the people here could address them but they would need a picture first. nudddezzzzzzzz

 

Thanks Benson X. Yes, I do hear it operate at startup, but it is very quiet usually. This was out of the norm. Could have just been a dirty valve or air inlet I suppose. I will just keep an eye on it for a while.

 

The noise is completely normal. It's just the pump.
It goes off after about 15 seconds.

 

Same thing happens on mine. Kinda nerve racking at first lol

 

From what I understand the Tundras have 2 of these and if they go out its not cheap. Mine makes noise also or if I start my truck than turn it off quickly.

Does any one know if it can be removed?

 

Probably not a good idea. You could mess up the catalytic converter.

 

My 2006 has one, theyre in all the 2nd gens.with the 2TR engine.