murphysf

Hello

I have a 2000 RX300 with about 280,000 miles

The valve cover gaskets are leaking badly and I don't believe the sparks plugs were never replaced.

I understand the plenum will need to be removed so will purchase a new plenum gasket.

Is there anything else that should be replaced while doing this work?

Should I purchase the newer version of the rear valve cover as I will most likely discover sludge issues?

I understand the newer version of the valve cover has a screw in type PCV valve so will need this as well.

I believe a new valve cover is around $200, the reason I am thinking of getting one is a friend just did a similar job on a Toyota (I htink Solara) with the same engine and ended up finding so much sludge he went through 2-3 cases of brake cleaner trying and several hours to clean things up.

For the future benefit of the sludge issue I am thinking the price for the new valve cover is not that much considering how much work is involved in this job and the benefits I will get against future sludge issues.

JAB

On my 1999 I did what you are contemplating several years ago and regretted it. Just too hard to work on that rear cover; some things are best done on a lift from below. My independent mechanic did it on my 2003 and the price was reasonable. But if you insist on doing it, be sure to replace the camshaft and spark plug tube seals.

murphysf

thanks for the post.

I am actually thinking of having a mechanic do the job.

I believe the camshaft and spark plug tube seals come in the fel pro valve cover gasket kit.

TrueGS300

The only thing that sucks about this job is the bracket bolts for the plenum. They really buried this engine in the bay. I just did this valve cover job. Heard about the updated valve cover, didn't upgrade. Car's doing fine and not sucking oil or anything. You can de-sludge the engine gradually with engine cleaner before your oil changes, and using a good oil adative with your fresh oil. What I did do was completely clean the throttle all throughout while it was off. Cleaned the IAC valve very well. Replaced the PCV valve. (My 01 uses the screw in type). Replaced plugs and coils due to age and that they are hard to get to. I even went as far as to pull the lower intake and replace the knock sensors and harness. But looking back, I don't feel this was necessary. This is also a good time to replace your thermostat as it is also pretty burred and will be much more accessible with all the intake stuff out of the way. I replaced it not long ago and wished I had just waited till I did the planned valve cover job.

It is quite difficult to see and clean the surfaces on the rear bank and place the silicone in the corners and place the cover with gasket and tube seals properly. You should be comfortable with this sort of work. This is not anywhere close to an easy valve cover job. It's among the hardest. There are also the half moons at the ends facing the drivers side that need pulled, cleaned, siliconed, and re-placed before placing he cover back on. They leak too.

murphysf

thanks for the reply.

I'm not sure I can de-sludge it gradually with engine cleaner before oil changes.

My friend has a 2001 Solara and he spent 3-4 hours with wire brushes and 2-3 cases of brake cleaner scrubbing the top to the rear head.

trhs75

I would replace the ignition coils while you are (or your mechanic is) back there. I've done it without removing the air intake and such, but it's not easy!!