How to Install Rotors on a Toyota 4WD

As its name implies, the Toyota 4WD is equipped with four wheel drive. This adds a few extra steps and precautions to the rotor removal process. Even though this job will take a little longer than removing a rotor on a rear wheel drive vehicle, it's still a relatively simple task. Budget between twenty and thirty minutes per rotor to complete this process. Make sure your replacement rotors are designed to fit your model year of the 4WD.

Difficulty:

Moderate

Instructions

things you'll need:

• Replacement rotors for your model year of 4WD
• Floor jack
• Jack stands
• Wheel chocks
• Tire iron
• Socket wrench
• Torx wrench
• Alan wrenches
• Flat head screwdriver
• Twist ties, nylon ties or twine

1. Jacking up the 4WD

   • 1

     Park on a level surface. Make sure that the four wheel drive is turned off and the parking brake is set.

   • 2

     Decide whether you want to work on the front end or back end rotors first. You can raise the front end and do both front rotors first or vice versa with the rear end, but you can only work on either the front or back end rotors at a time.

   • 3

     Place wheel chocks behind both of the wheels that will remain on the ground. Then position the jack under a solid part of the frame on the opposite end of the car. Carefully jack the vehicle up until it's high enough for you to slide jack stands underneath.

   • 4

     Slide two jack stands under the raised end of the car. Make sure one is on each side of the vehicle and that both are positioned under solid sections of the frame. Slowly lower the vehicle onto the jack stands and pull the floor jack out.

   Removing a Rotor

   • 1

     Remove all of the lug nuts from the tire and wheel assembly using a tire iron. Then pull the tire and wheel assembly off of the wheel spindle.

   • 2

     Remove the two bolts on top of the brake caliper using a socket wrench. Pull the caliper off of the rotor when the bolts have been removed, but do not allow it to dangle by the brake line.

   • 3

     Tie the caliper to a rigid part of the underbody using a twist tie, nylon tie, twine or some other binding material. Make sure it is suspended so that there is no pressure on the brake line.

   • 4

     Pull both brake pads out of the caliper mount. If they're stuck to the sides of the rotor, use a flat head screwdriver to pry them off.

   • 5

     Remove the caliper mount by unscrewing its retention bolts with a socket wrench.

   • 6

     Remove the grease cap on the end of the spindle. This is held in place with six Allen screws that can be removed with an Allen wrench.

   • 7

     Use a socket wrench to remove the large bolt located just beneath the grease cap, and pull off the washer hidden just beneath the bolt.

   • 8

     Use a Torx wrench to remove the automatic locking hub from the end of the spindle. There are three Torx bolts that need to be removed.

   • 9

     Pull the old rotor off of the spindle.

   Installing a Rotor

   • 1

     Slide the new rotor onto the wheel spindle.

   • 2

     Slide the automatic locking hub assembly onto the spindle on top of the rotor. Insert the original three Torx bolts and tighten them down with a Torx wrench.

   • 3

     Slide the large grease cap washer over the large grease cap bolt. Then screw the bolt into the center of the spindle using a socket wrench.

   • 4

     Place the grease cap over the end of the spindle. Reinsert the six Allen screws and tighten them down with an alan wrench.

   • 5

     Slide the caliper mount onto the side of the rotor near the hanging caliper. Reinsert the caliper mount bolts and tighten them all with a socket wrench.

   • 6

     Put the brake pads back into place inside the caliper mount, making sure the pads are facing the rotor.

   • 7

     Untie the hanging caliper and place it back over the caliper mount. Reinsert the two caliper bolts and tighten them both with a socket wrench.

   • 8

     Slide the wheel and tire assembly back onto the end of the wheel spindle and tighten down all of the lug nuts.

How to Install a Stereo in a Toyota Tacoma

The Toyota Tacoma has been around for decades and is as popular as ever. An older Toyota Tacoma is ready to have the stereo replaced, which requires removal of the lower dash panels with a few basic tools. Swapping out the stereo on the Toyota Tacoma gives you better sound quality and newer features like an iPod dock and MP3 capability.

Difficulty:

Moderate

Instructions

things you'll need:

• 10 mm socket
• Screwdrivers
• Wiring harness adaptor

1. • 1

     Disconnect the negative terminal on your battery. You should do this before beginning any work on an electronic component of your Toyota Tacoma for your own safety.

   • 2

     Remove the two screws and one 10mm bolt from the bottom dash panel under the steering wheel. Pull out the parking brake handle and remove the two screws hidden behind it. Pull the panel out enough to disconnect the hood release switch. Pull the panel away from the dash and set it aside.

   • 3

     Locate and remove one 10mm bolt at the bottom left of the glove box and one screw at the bottom right. Open the glove box and remove three screws from the upper portion of the trim. Use your fingers to pry at the upper right portion of the dash panel until it unsnaps. Some models have a wiring connection that must be unhooked to fully remove the trim.

   • 4

     Find the screw in the upper right corner where the glove box was and remove it. Move to the bottom of the center console panel and unsnap the clips, starting at the bottom until the entire center console trim is free.

   • 5

     Pull the end knobs from the climate control slides or dials and gently pry the controls out of the dash. Locate one screw below the radio and remove it. Pull the stereo out of the dash and disconnect the wires behind the radio.

   • 6

     Connect the wiring harness adaptor to the original harness and plug it into the back of the new head unit. Slide the stereo into the dash and secure it with the original screw. Reconnect the negative battery cable.

   • 7

     Turn the radio on and verify everything is working properly. Replace the climate controls, console trim and remaining dash panels.

How to Go Through Toyota Financing With Bad Credit

Toyota Financial is used as a primary bank by Toyota dealerships across the nation. Depending on what kind of car you're buying and the dealer you use, you may be able to use Toyota Financial, even with bad credit. You can expect to put money down towards your loan and experience a lengthy approval process. Know what to expect if you're trying use Toyota Financial with bad credit.

Difficulty:

Moderate

Instructions

1. • 1

     Call a local Toyota dealership. Ask for a sales representative and let him know that you have bad credit but want to use Toyota Financial. Make an appointment with the sales representative--she will ask you to come in to the dealership.

   • 2

     Gather necessary documents for a complete approval for Toyota Financial. Bring your most recent pay stub and proof of residency, such as a utility bill in your name. Upon approval, a Toyota Financial representative has to review this information.

   • 3

     Arrive at the dealership and ask for your sales representative. Do not expect to immediately pick out a car. Because of your credit, you might be limited in your options.

   • 4

     Fill out the credit application by providing your name, address, date of birth, social security number and employment information. Be accurate when supplying your gross annual income. List your rent or mortgage payment and how long you've been at your job and residence.

   • 5

     Sign your credit application, wait for the sales representative to run your credit and let you know your next step. You may told that you can expect a phone call after the dealer has "worked on it," meaning that the dealer cannot get you approved without negotiating with a bank representative.

   • 6

     Allow your sales person to instruct you further. You may be asked to put significant money down or you may have vehicle limitations. If the latter is the case, your sales person will show you vehicles that fall within bank guidelines--you can pick out your car once you are approved.

Tips & Warnings

• Work with the Toyota dealer and be patient. Approval time for a bad credit loan can take several days.

• You do not have to use Toyota Financial. The dealer may be able to obtain your approval with another bank.

• Do not start shopping before you have your approval. There is a very good chance you'll have only a select few vehicles to choose from--getting your approval first will save you time.

How to Remove the Rear Drum Brakes From a Toyota Tacoma

Rear drum brakes on a Toyota Tacoma are more complicated to remove than are the front brakes. Your memory for detail, hand dexterity and coordination will all be tested when you attempt to remove the rear drum brakes. Having some specialty rear brake tools will help, but only marginally. When you do attempt it, it is recommended you remove both drums and leave one side together if you've never performed a rear drum brake job before. This way, you can always use the other wheel as a reference point as you remove the rear drum brakes from your Toyota Tacoma.

Difficulty:

Challenging

Instructions

things you'll need:

• Floor jack Two jack stands Wheel chock 1/2-inch drive breaking bar 1/2-inch drive metric socket set (10 to 21 mm) 1/2-inch drive ratchet Hammer Flathead screwdriver Brake shoe retaining spring tool Brake spring pliers Two 8-mm width by 1.25 mm thread pitch bolts WD-40

1. How to Remove the Rear Drum Brakes From a Toyota Tacoma

   • 1

     Park the Toyota Tacoma on a level paved or concrete surface.

   • 2

     Place a wheel chock in front of one of the front tires.

   • 3

     Break the lug nuts loose on both rear wheels with the breaking bar and a 21-mm socket.

   • 4

     Lift the rear axle on one side of the Tacoma and place a jack stand under the rear axle on that side. Repeat this step for the other side so the rear axle is suspended.

   • 5

     Remove the lug nuts and both tires.

   • 6

     Strike the flat hub face of the drum near the edge to loosen it from the hub. If it is stubborn, spray a little WD-40 into the small screw holes located near the hub. Thread in the two 8 by 1.25 mm bolts and tighten them alternately with the ratchet and a socket to pull the drum away from the hub.

   • 7

     Remove the drum and remove the bolts. Remove the other drum in the same manner.

   • 8

     Start to remove the left side brakes first. Using the brake spring pliers, remove the upper return spring connecting the two shoes together.

   • 9

     Remove the rear shoe (toward the rear of the Tacoma). Hold down the spring by holding the head of the pin on the back of the backing plate with a finger. Use the brake shoe retaining spring tool to twist the spring free from the hold-down pin. Remove the shoe and the anchor spring at the bottom.

   • 10

     Remove the front shoe hold down spring in the same manner. Disconnect the parking brake cable from the bell crank. Remove the E-clip, the automatic adjuster lever. Spread and remove the C washer with the flathead screwdriver, and remove the parking brake lever from the shoe.

   • 11

     Remove the front shoe with the strut intact.

   • 12

     Disconnect the other parking brake cable.

   • 13

     Disconnect the adjuster lever spring and remove the adjuster from the shoe.

   • 14

     To replace, reverse the order. Keep the right side intact to help you put the brakes and hardware back in the same manner they were removed.

   • 15

     Repeat the procedure for the right side, using the left as reference.

Tips & Warnings

• To become familiar with certain verbiage or terms of parts concerning the rear drum brake removal and replacement, another helpful tool would be a Haynes or Chiltons repair manual for your Toyota Tacoma. These guides have illustrations and point out certain details of what and where to disconnect and reconnect for repairs. These manuals can be purchased at most aftermarket parts stores.

How to Replace a Toyota Fender

The phrase "fender bender" was invented for a reason, and most times, it happens because of a collision. No matter what reason you have for swapping out your original fender, doing the work on your Toyota isn't an incredibly difficult job and takes 30 minutes or so. In this case, the project vehicle is a 1995 Toyota pickup, but the process is similar for other vehicles.

Difficulty:

Moderately Easy

Instructions

things you'll need:

• Phillips-head screwdriver
• 3/8-inch ratchet, extension and socket set
• Replacement fender

1. • 1

     Unbolt the corner lens from the fender using the Phillips-head screwdriver. Once it's free, twist out the light bulb from the corner lens with your hands.

   • 2

     Pop the hood and hold it up using the hood prop. Then unbolt the top of the fender from the core support and body using the 3/8-inch ratchet and socket.

   • 3

     Open the door and unbolt the fender from the cab of the vehicle using the 3/8-inch ratchet, extension and sockets. Unbolt the bolt at the bottom of the fender by the door as well.

   • 4

     Unbolt the fender from the core support, just behind the bumper, using the 3/8-inch ratchet and socket. Lift the fender away from the vehicle.

   • 5

     Place the replacement fender onto the body and loosely bolt it in place with your hands. This is just to temporarily align the fender before you start tightening things.

   • 6

     Push, pull or adjust the fender until the gaps between the fender and hood and the door are where you want them. Then tighten down every bolt using the 3/8-inch ratchet, extension and sockets.

   • 7

     Install the corner lens light into the corner lens using your hands and then screw the corner lens into the fender using the Phillips-head screwdriver.

How to Fix a Toyota Tundra Tailgate

The right tools helps with your Tundra tailgate problem.

The Toyota Tundra is the automaker's full-sized truck offering. This pickup is designed for heavy hauling, off-roading and utility tasks. Toyota has acknowledged problems with the tailgate on the Tundra. If you have an issue with your Tundra's tailgate you can try a few fixes and repairs at home. The home fixes require a few hand tools and materials readily available at hardware or auto parts stores, and an hour of time.

Difficulty:

Moderate

Instructions

things you'll need:

• Replacement Tundra Tailgate Cables
• 4 foot chunk of 2x4
• Metric sockets and ratchet
• Phillips screwdriver
• WD-40 or other spray-on lubricant
• Paper towels
• Tundra VIN

1. Handle Mechanism

   • 1

     Open and close the latch handle mechanism and listen for grinding, or the sound of grit or metal scraping. Open the hatch and lower the tailgate. Inspect the edges of the tailgate where the latches make contact with the housings on the truck bed. Inspect for dryness, grit or deterioration on the metal. Inspect the wire cables that hold the tailgate in position when lowered.

   • 2

     Spray the WD-40 or lubricant onto the handle mechanism, making sure to spray under the handhold. Spray the metal connectors where the tailgate meets the housings on the truck bed. Let the lubricant soak in and wipe away any excess with paper towels.

   • 3

     Move the handle mechanism up and down several times and watch the mechanism on the latch and sides of the tailgate for any problematic movement.

   Tailgate Cables

   • 1

     Open the tailgate and lower. Place the 4-foot piece of 2-by-4 under the tailgate so it will stay upright when the cables are disconnected.

   • 2

     Unscrew the cable housing set screws with the Phillips screwdriver. If the screws are sticky, spray WD-40 or other lubricant onto them and let it soak in and try again. Once loosened, pull the tailgate cables off the truck bed and tailgate.

   • 3

     Thread the new cables into the set screws and tighten the screws by turning them to the right until firm and tight. Tighten the set screws as tightly as you can.

   • 4

     Open and close the tailgate several times. Open the tailgate and let it "drop" until the cables catch it and prevents it from falling, to test the integrity of the cables.

   Check on Warranty Issues

   • 1

     Go online to the Toyota Warranty Information website (see Resource 1). Due to the issues Toyota had with Tundras in 2007, there are several recall fixes on tailgates that Toyota will fix for free.

   • 2

     Enter the VIN of your Tundra into the website. If you choose to phone Toyota, give the VIN to the representative on the Toyota end of the call.

   • 3

     Ask about tailgate issues and warranty coverage for the tailgate. Ask if the warranty is negated if you attempt to repair the tailgate on your own, or if Toyota will provide free maintenance on any tailgate problems.

How to Replace A Side Window In a 1992 Toyota Camry

Like myself, and others, you might have have gone to get in your Toyota Camry and realized someone has taken a blunt object to your door window. You will notice glass is strewn throughout your car and you may feel a little violated. Or possibly it wasn't an act of vandalism, but you simply need to replace your front car door window for whatever reason. For about 150-200 bucks, you may just decide to have someone do this for you. However, if you have a little patience and a couple hours, you will find this task is surprisingly easily to do yourself. It will also cost you A LOT less than having someone do this simple task for you.

Difficulty:

Moderate

Instructions

things you'll need:

• Flat-Head Screwdriver
• Phillips Screwdriver
• 10mm Socket Screwdriver

1. • 1

     First and foremost, you need a replacement window. Buying a new window from a local glass company will run you about $80.00. But if you want to save about $30, call your local junkyard/wrecking company and find a used window for about $50. Make sure you determine whether your broken window is bronze tinted or not bronze tinted. To determine this, place a piece of the broken window on a piece of white paper. The glass will reveal a greenish tint if it is NOT bronze tinted, and will of course look more bronze if it is bronze tinted.

   • 2

     So you now have your window. Next is the fun part. Before you begin tearing things apart, you may want to lay down a clothe or plastic tarp below the door to collect any broken glass pieces that fall while you are working. First, you need to get the inside door panel off. There two caps covering a couple phillip screws on the door panel, closest to the car. Pop the caps off with a flat-head screwdriver and remove the screws. There is also another cap by the inside door handle with a screw you will need to remove. If you have small door speakers by the handle (some Camrys do and some don't) you will find a screw under the mesh speaker cover you will need to remove. Remove the red saftely light from the door by prying each end with a flat head screwdriver and disconnect the wire from the light body. You may find a phillips screw within the light cavity of the door panel you will need to remove also. There will be two pins in the side of the panel farthest from the car that will need released. To do this, press the center of each pin to release the locking mechanism and pry the pins from the panel with a flat head screwdriver. So you should have about 5 screws and 2 pins removed. Be sure to check on the other edges of the panel to be sure you did not miss any. Next we will need to remove the door handle cover.

   • 3

     The next and trickiest step is removing the door handle cover from the door. The only tool you will need for this task is a flat head screw driver. Begin by inserting the screwdriver between the top of the door lock and the door handle trim. Pry the screwdriver down, to lift the panel away from the door lock. You really dont need to put much muscle into it, just play with it until it released. Once the top is released, insert a flathead screwdriver into the bottom between the door handle and the door handle trim. This time, pry the screwdriver up, pulling the frame down and out. Again, be patient and careful not to destroy your handle or trim. Use a piece of electrical tape on the screwdriver head to protect your car. Once you have the top and bottom of the handle trim released, pull the door handle outward and remove the trim piece. Grab the bottom of the door panel and pull with gentle force to release from the door frame. There are several plasic tabs that hold the panel to the frame. Once the panel is loose from the door, lift upward to completely remove the panel from the metal door. There will still be wires connecting the two parts, so gently let the panel hang. Lets replace the window next.

   • 4

     Start by carefully peeling the clear, dirty plastic from the door. This moisture protectant will be secured by a strip of sticky, black sealant. If youre car is a 1992 like mine, the black sealant may barely be securing anything. Without destroying it, just peal the plastic sheet about halfway towards the car so you can get into the door cavity where the window is. Use a screw driver to pry any broken glass from inside the window track/trim (the rubber track the window slides in) also. Before you forget, use a shop vac to vacuumm all of the broken glass from inside the door.

   • 5

     Turn the ignition on and roll the window mechanism down about half way so that you can see the window mount. Be sure to turn off the ignition and remove your key. You will see the 2 screws that hold the window to the window mount. Remove the old, broken window pieces from the mount using the 10mm socket driver or a phillips screwdriver. You're now ready to install the new window.

   • 6

     If you found your replacement window used or from a junkyard, you may want to clean the window before you install it. Obviously you can clean it much easier out of the car that you will be able to when it's installed. Begin by sliding the two mounting brackets down into the door frame where the window would go. Be sure you put the front part of the window into the window trim first and gently maneuver it until the back part of the window slides into the window trim. I know it sounds a little confusing, but just put the front of the window in first, that is the key. Once the window is in the trim, lower it until the two brackets on the window meet the window mount inside the door. Match up the holes and insert the screws, securing the new window. Turn on the ignition again and test to make sure the window moves up and down smoothly like it should. You're done. Because you've torn everything apart, putting it back together should be simple. Just follow the steps in reverse. Not only did you spite those bastards that broke your window, you also saved a ton of money. Good job!