OEM 2001 Toyota RAV4 Timing Chain

2001 Toyota RAV4 Parts Questions & Experts Answers

• Q: How to remove and install the timing chain on 2001 Toyota RAV4?

  A: A proper timing chain removal starts with draining engine oil before continuing with the removal of the RH engine under cover followed by the PS vane pump and ABS actuator along with the RH engine mounting insulator and drive belt and generator and air cleaner assembly and ignition coils. Begin the procedure of removing the cylinder head cover by unplugging the 2 PCV hoses and then removing 8 bolts and 2 nuts. Structure the No. 1 cylinder to TDC/compression by rotating the crankshaft pulley to reach timing mark 0 alignment with the camshaft and VVT timing sprocket bearing caps while checking for correct linkage. If realignment is needed adjust the crankshaft by 1 revolution. To proceed with this job, start by using Special Service Tools 09213-54015 and 0933-00021 to remove the crankshaft pulley before the chain tensioner and drive belt tensioner and crankshaft position sensor and oil pan and timing chain cover by removing the stud bolt for drive belt tensioner the 14 bolts and 2 nuts along with careful prying of the cover. Take out the crank angle sensor plate as well as the chain tensioner slipper, chain vibration damper and timing chain guide but be cautious to prevent damage to both the cylinder head and valve lifter while also removing the timing chain, crankshaft timing sprocket, camshaft timing sprocket and VVT timing sprocket. You should examine the timing chain together with sprockets for wear and elongation then proceed to replace them while testing the chain tensioner slipper and vibration damper for replacement if wear is present. To replace the crankshaft front oil seal either Special Service Tool 09309-37010 should be used with timing chain cover removal or Tool 09308-10010 should be used for situations when the cover remains installed. First correctly position the camshaft timing sprocket and VVT timing sprocket before torque tightening them to specifications then reset the No. 1 cylinder to TDC/compression position. The chain vibration damper should be installed together with crankshaft timing sprocket and timing chain guide and timing chain and chain tensioner slipper and crank angle sensor plate followed by the timing chain cover installation using proper torque values. Start installation by putting the drive belt tensioner followed by crankshaft position sensor and oil pan and crankshaft pulley using this set of Special Service Tools: 09213-54015, 0933-00021. Finish the process by installing the timing chain tensioner while setting appropriate chain tension and checking vital valve timing. To finish the installation process secure the cylinder head cover and all following parts including ignition coils, vane pump, generator, RH engine mounting insulator, drive belt, ABS actuator and air cleaner assembly and engine under cover and fill with engine oil, start the engine, check for leaks and verify the engine oil level once again.