New to the Tacoma (04)

Well the diff fluid looked good so I neglected to change it just yet... Crush washer was the issue after all so the whole thing cost $46 out the door. These were the first mechanics to look at it post purchase so I was relieved to hear them give it the stamp of approval.

ETA trying to figure out how to adjust this belt... seems like its the alternator, thats the loosest one. Maybe easier to access this thing from below? 12mm locking nut on face, adjusting bolt on side?

 

Sounds right on adjusting the belt. You can pull it easily as well to inspect it. If it's newer I'd just tighten the adjusting bolt half to full turn until you're comfortable with lack of noise. Just don't want to over tighten it. You also may have to loosen the bolt and nut that the alternator pivots on to be able to get it to move with the adjustment bolt.

 

Evan,

You definitely have made some serious head way with your Tacoma. You need to congratulate yourself for making progress. The next thing I would is buy yourself a Clintons or Haynes service manual, and I would follow their guide lines as far as maintaining your rig. Members on this site have already told you a lot of things that they are going to tell you.

You will enjoy your Tacoma. These first generation Tacomas are great rigs. The Toyota 3.4 liter V6 is a great engine, but, as you will find out, they are a little thirsty for their size.

Good Luck,
Paul