DIY fix for 2GR-FKS timing cover leaks?

Hi guys,

I'm still running my '06 2.7L 2wd and have been looking at new trucks. I swore I was going with a V6 this time since I do spend time in the mountains here and there and haul weight every now and then. I also want 4WD.

The timing cover leak issues have had me considering going with the new Frontier or another 2.7L, but I really want to stick with the Tacoma and would like a little more power, particularly since after the camper and 4x4 I'm adding (also std > Access cab), curb weight will be an extra ~1,200 lbs that little 2TR-FE has to lug around. Yuck. At 186k miles and several mountainous cross country road trips I think I know enough to know I'll be a little let down by the 2.7L.

That said, has anyone with timing cover leaks on the 3rd gen V6 (2GR-FKS) tried any DIY solutions WITHOUT PULLING THE ENGINE, e.g. cleaning up the leak area and smearing some Permatex on? Or some variation on that?

I found this thread where a guy did it on his 2nd gen ( https://www.tacomaworld.com/threads/timing-cover-leak-easy-fix.714515/page-2 ) but I'm curious if there's enough room to get in there to clean things up and smear the product where it needs to go.

I've been reading several threads, often several pages per, and it seems everyone with the issue is just getting things done under warranty (standard or extended). I like to keep my vehicles for 10+ years so am curious if this is something I'll be able to fix 'quick and dirty' down the road, when the warranty is up.

Any thoughts or experience with this on the 3rd gen V6?

 

While it’s good to be prepared it’s not an issue that affects every 3.5. My v6 is out of warranty and has 173,000 miles. I haven’t had any engine problems and I am hard on my truck. There have been 2 million sold so of course you will hear issues about it on the forums. For your use the v6 is the better option. The 2.7 is bullet proof but absolutely gutless. Buy a 6 and don’t worry about it, the actual number of engines affected by timing cover leaks is small compared to the number 3.5s on the road across multiple platforms. The new frontier is appealing but there is virtually no guarantee it will be reliable as the 3.5 taco. I haven’t see modern frontiers hold up as well as Tacoma’s past 200k.

 

Considering going with a Nissan over the threat of a possible timing cover leak? The internet claims another one..

 

Smearing something where something leaks in like a roof for example works - OK - sometimes - for a while...

Smearing something where something leaks out like a timing cover for example works - about never...

That said, every vehicle purchase is a roll of the dice, with a Tacoma the odds seem to be better though, I wouldn't worry about it. Buy what you need/like & take good care of it, you should be good for a long time.

 

https://www.amazon.com/Gunk-FEB1CA-...efix=foamy+engine+brite,automotive,169&sr=1-3

and dont worry about it.

 

I only wish I had some sort of actual statistic. I saw a thread on here where someone asked the probability of having the issue and was effectively laughed at (sadly, somewhat understandably). I'm curious how many people have the leak but just never go looking for it/never drips onto ground/maintenance techs ignore or don't mention it.

And yeah, these new Frontiers are just a little too new for my comfort. Not to mention the purely directly injected engines...not too sure on that part....
The lower price and extra HP is attractive, though.

Is there actually enough room to get in there to clean the affected area and apply something, IF I were inclined to give it a try? I don't know anyone with a 3rd gen Taco.

 

go to your dealer and ask the parts dept person how many they have had to fix, maybe they will be forth coming? just a shot.
i am going to do that the next time i am at the dealer to get oil filters.