My 1992 Lexus ES300 has been diagnosed as having two bad/ leaking valve seals [3rd and 4th cylinder]. Where can I find a manual or step by step directions to accomplish this type of work? I would like to attempt to complete this work myself as I was advised that it may cost upwards of $1700-$2000.

 

You would have to buy a service manual like Haynes or sign up for the Toyota information online. Thats a time consuming job and a lot of $$$ for the age of the car.

 

Thanks for your reply.

 

Or better yet, EBay has lots of choices, this would be a good one (and no, I'm not the seller nor do I have any affiliation with the seller) http://www.ebay.com/itm/1992-Lexus-E...2aba95&vxp=mtr I always buy factory manuals when I get a car. At today's garage labor rates, you'd spend the price of a set of manuals in about 2 hours, so if you do a job yourself in 2 hours, it's the same money, then you're ahead from there on. Or, the guidance and knowledge you'll gain will avoid getting ripped off too. My 2 cents...

 

That is great. I didn' even think about ebay. Those manuals would come in handy. Now I just need a shot of confidence because I haven't ever attempted a project of this magnitude or difficulty. Am I kidding myself that I can have success; as a first timer? Do you have any experience with this type of repair or offer any advise?

 

how many miles on it. did you try prolonging the wear by using oil conditioners

 

this is an 8+ hour job to do. you'll have to remove the intake plenum, timing belt, timing gears for the heads (requiring special tools to hold the gear still they are torqued with 150+ lb-ft) then the bearing caps.

after removing the bearings for the cam shafts the cam shafts themselves come out and they have springs in the gears driving the intake cam shaft. you must lock those so the springs dont release. there are also special tools needed to compress the valve springs to remove the keepers and the upper spring seat. you'll also need compressed air to keep the valve up while you remove the spring, keepers and valve stem seal.

Caution is advised if you attempt to do this job yourself assuming moderate to minimal mechanical experience.