Broken VVT phaser

Nice update!

Just out of curiosity, you mentioned cleaning the exterior surfaces of the valve and timing covers so I'm assuming they were exhibiting that white oxidation grit which you can sort of see in some of your pics/video. Did you use a Scotch-Brite pad or anything with the oven cleaner or just a rag, and did it require much elbow grease? Mine could use some TLC so I've been exploring different options for tackling this.

 

Thanks, yes it was to clean up the oxidation. I wasted time with wire brushes, degreaser, etc before I decided to use the oven cleaner on the covers. The stuff is pretty caustic. Keep in mind it requires a thorough rinsing off with water to stop it from stripping the aluminum...I had all the covers off the vehicle, so it was easy enough to hose them off really well and them wipe down. So to answer your question, the Easy Off Heavy Duty sat for 10-15 minutes and did its magic. Then I rinsed it and yes, I still used Scotchbrite (maroon) to finish up the job, particularly in the tight crevices. But that stuff was a big time saver...mind you it puts a dark "patina" on the aluminum. I will add that I wound up cleaning a lot of other parts (PS pump, Alternator, Tensioner pulley, Coolant intake) with Mineral spirits, Scotchbrite and wire brushes (brass for most stuff, steel for stubborn areas) and this was actually pretty efficient too. I also didn't darken the bright aluminum. Unless youve got your engine apart, that's what I would recommend instead.

 

Good to know and appreciate the thorough follow up response here!

 

Thanks for this write up. I actually had the same issue. funny how the new part has extra support so it doesn't happen again....effing toyota. I went ahead and replaced the second side as well so I don't have to do the job twice.

I'm thinking about replacing the timing chain while I have it apart since I've got almost 300k. What is everyone's feelings on with going with an aftermarket timing chain kit vs. the dealer kit? same parts, $650 difference. any brands to stay away from?

 

It would be a good idea to do the chain and tensioners while your there with that mileage and the amount of work required, can't really speak for any aftermarket companies with the state of today's aftermarket parts quality (I think Cloyes kits used to be good, don't know if they still are) but Toyota parts have always been good quality (I mean the original made it almost 300k).

 

That’s a BIG job. I guess it comes down to how you feel about aftermarket parts?
I mean, your current chain, guides, and sprocket went 300k. That’s pretty good testimony to OE quality.

I guess if I were to go aftermarket I’d go with the mellings kit.
And that’s only because I’ve used them on old Chevy engines with success.
And they are mead in the U.S.A.

Here is OE for “cheaper”
https://www.yotashop.com/timing-kit...ndra-oem-timing-chain-kit-2003-2016-kit-1104/

 

I didn't know Melling made timing chains, I've only known them for oil pumps.

 

I'd bite the bullet. You know what they say...."you get what you pay for!" That OEM kit from yotashop is a pretty good deal. Looking at the tensioner, how much did your chain stretch? I saw another thread in this forum where a guys chain hadn't stretched at a 300K rebuild...so back in it went with no issues.
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