1990 4runner repairs, timing chain, turbocharger, header

[kasafras]

hi everyone,

New to the forums. Please direct me to the appropriate forum is this topic has already been answered in detail.

I'm doing some major maintenance on my runner (1990, 2.4L) and would like some advice as I'm new to most of it.

The following are the repairs that I'm undertaking:

1. timing chain replacement (already read about getting the set (chain, guides, cover, and oil/water pumps) from engnbldr.com)
2. valve timing
3. fix a bad oil leak (source unknown)

Possible extras this time around:
1. exhaust header added
2. turbocharger added


We have removed all that bolts that I can possibly see on the timing cover, but I can't seem to get the cover off. I figured out at the end of the day that I will need to remove the valve cover to get at a final bolt that seemed to be holding the cover to the head.

What I'm wondering is if it's recommended to remove the cylinder head to replace the head gasket in its entirety or what to watch for when removing the timing cover to make sure the head gasket remains intact.

If so, they what would the recommendations be for the head? Would I get it machined or??? As mentioned, I'm really new to this, so I am asking for any information that you can provide me with or steer me towards. I'm not sure what machining the head would do to it or what else I would need to watch out for, so please treat me like an idiot, and that's pretty much were my knowledge level is at with this. I have a Haynes manual and we all know how limited that can be.

Is there anything special to do with the oil pan? Is it possible to remove it without lifting the engine? Or is it just not physically possible? How should the gasket be replaced? Is there something better than an OEM gasket? It is possible or recommended to replace the oil pan with a deeper one (this was suggested by a friend who is into trucks, but doesn't own a 4runner, so I'm not even sure what would be required or if it's even possible.).

For installing the timing chain and timing the engine, can someone direct me to a good set of complete instructions on how to do this properly? I am extremely patient and will be able to follow instructions, but so far I haven't been able to get anything but the haynes manual instructions.

When replacing the radiator hoses, is it better to replace them with braided hoses? Or just oem rubber hoses?

For turbochargers and headers, does anyone have any suggestions for models or companies? I'd like to add a stage 3 kit and a good quality (not necessarily the best) header. The goal is to either add power or improved gas mileage or a mix of the two. Again, I don't know much about these, so any advice/knowledge is greatly appreciated!

Well, thanks for reading, and thanks in advance for all recommendations and helpful advice.

[jetwhine]

kasafras,

As far as the t-chain cover is concerend there is one bolt that is under the valve cover at the front of the head. It is under the distributor shaft, you should remove it to get at the bolt.
If you don't need to machine the head, don't do it.
Braided hoses just look nice but the OEM hoses are fine.
Also check your personal messages for some other info.
When you add a turbo it increases the air flow to the engine which inturn means more gas, so I guess you will get the picture on that. It will increase horse power but at a cost of fuel.
To get the oil pan off I believe you will need to remove some of the suspension parts to get to it.
A header will allow better flow to the exhaust system, and a free flow muffler will work good.

[fourwd1]

Here is a real good how-to.

As for getting the TC cover off, there is a bolt in the front off the head that goes down into the cover. It's under the distrib gear on the cam shaft hidden in a puddle of oil. Also one hidden behind the PS pump going in from the rear.

As for adding a turbo, are you ready to replace the pistons and injectors, drill and tap the block for an oil line, etc.?

[kasafras]

As mentioned, i haven't really read much about the turbocharger. I'd like to learn more about everything you mention. should I just google it or is there somewhere that explains it all?

Another quick question...where is a good place to get a gasket set? like, head gasket, timing gasket, etc etc etc.

should I go oem? or is there a great aftermarket set to go for?

Thanks!

[fourwd1]

Originally Posted by kasafras

As mentioned, i haven't really read much about the turbocharger. I'd like to learn more about everything you mention. should I just google it or is there somewhere that explains it all?

Another quick question...where is a good place to get a gasket set? like, head gasket, timing gasket, etc etc etc.

should I go oem? or is there a great aftermarket set to go for?

Thanks!

Check engnbldr.com. He has good prices, parts and service.

As for info on turbo charging the 4 cyl, there are a number of sites dedicated to 22RTE (the stock turbo engine that was available in Toy trucks from 86-87). GOOGLE will help you find them.