Timing cover leak fix?

Does anyone here remember a detailed post about the diy RTV fix for the timing cover leak? I remember reading it at one point when I was looking up the issue. It was a really detailed explanation about how to perform the diy by removing the PS pump and where to put the RTV. I’ve tried searching for it but can’t come up with it. If anyone remembers it I’d love a link to it! Or if you’ve done it and have a detailed explanation I’d appreciate that too.

 

I think that was a second gen post

https://www.tacomaworld.com/threads...ad-gaskets-replaced-tips-observations.741923/

 

Not the same post, but seems like a similar procedure. This problem affects the 2nd and 3rd gen’s from what I understand. Mines a 2017 and I’ve read a lot of others on here having the problem with their 3rd gen’s.

 

Yeah, I've been dreading the possibility of the timing cover leak and the rear bypass leak.

The timing cover leak i assume is just splash oil can can possibly externally sealed as a band aid without having to pull the engine... As for the coolant bypass though, ugh... I hope someone completes the retrofit of the lexus metal housing.

 

Yeah, mine has been leaking for as long as I’ve had the truck I think. I bought it used 2 years ago and didn’t notice it when I bought it but it was all cleaned up and if you’re not looking super close you won’t see it. So far it’s been nothing but a seep, no noticeable loss of oil on the dipstick between 5k oil changes. I just want to “fix” it more for peace of mind. From what I understand, you’re correct that it is splash lube so it can be sealed externally. Not the correct way to do it but better than the thousands the dealer will want to fix it. I think if I ever have the crosspipe leaking that’ll be the end of this pig for me

 

I had the same the situation as you OP when I bought my 2016 used with 55k last year. Did not purchase an extended warranty. I tried the permatex fix and it seems to have stopped it, or slowed it so much it isn't really noticeable any more. Here is the thread I posted on it, and the fix I did towards the end of the thread.

I did a lot of research on it and from what I understand it is not a fatal flaw as it does not leak enough to make the engine low on oil between oil changes, just more of an annoyance that can make a mess over time. I was not comfortable having the engine pulled and the whole front cover taken off to chase a seep. Some have had major issues after the repair, and some leak again anyway after the repair, but some seemed to be ok too, so to each their own on that one.

I also linked a video from the car care nut performing and explaining the repair on a 3.5 similar to our tacoma's. Good luck.

https://www.tacomaworld.com/threads/timing-cover-leak-fix-it-or-leave-it.817607/

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=RMvjhUVjyc0