dummyhalf

Hi All, I have an '04 Hilux (3.4L V6 VZN167R). I'm a bit of a noob when it comes to auto electrics. Does anyone happen to know how many amps the alternator is suppose to be producing? I've had a couple issues starting the lux recently, even with a brand new battery. After a relatively long drive, if you switch off the lux and try to start her up again after say 5-10mins, the lux just dies - no lights, just nothing. I've had the RACQ and Autobarn test the new battery, and both say it's all good. The RACQ technician did test the alternator though - he mentioned the alternator was producing around 40 amps which he says was a little low (revving at around 2000rpm with aircon, high beam, demister fan on). He mentioned that on long trips perhaps, maybe the battery wasn't being charged adequately. That was just his preliminary finding though and he recommended that I take it to an Auto Electrician to have it diagnosed properly (which I'll do on Monday). This leads me to my original question: How many amps is the alternator supposed to produce? Has anyone ever experienced this issue before? Is this just a classic alternator failing? Thanks in advance!

Hey guys, Just wanted to ask if the charcoal canister has any influence on fuel economy? Cheers

Hi all, I finally got around to replacing the clutch on my Hilux. I was looking around underneath and noticed the section where the bellhousing connects with the engine. From what I could see underneath, there are three bolts securing the bellhousing to the engine. There are another two holes (one threaded, the other not threaded) without bolts. Does anyone know if it's supposed to be like that? Or should I be heading back to the workshop, asking for some new bolts? Thanks in advance

Cheers for the advice Dave. Yeah, I was quoted two grand for clutch replacement as well. Called up ABS and they quoted me half the price (including an Exedy OEM clutch).

Hi there, My hilux is approaching its 120,000km major service and was just wondering if anyone from Brisbane could recommend a good Toyota dealer or local workshop to get the job done. I've contacted two Toyota dealers and as expected, it will cost a whopper. Also, should I consider just taking it to an independent workshop rather than a dealer. I know that dealers should know their Toyota's inside out and you get genuine parts. However, will independent pretty much just do the same, but with non genuine parts? I do prefer dealer but if anyone knows a good workshop out there that will do the job properly, I'd probably just go to them. I've read some stuff on the forums about dodgy dealer servicing and that's why I'm asking for some advice on who to take the vehicle to. I've read that servicing at Lexus Indooroopilly are quite good. Any other dealers/workshops? Cheers, dummyhalf :)

Hi, I'm in the hunt for some side steps for my 4x4 2004 Hilux Dual Cab. I've been to TJM, ARB and my local Toyota dealer. So far, I'm leaning towards the genuine Toyota side steps as I have found them to be the cheapest (surprisingly), but I have been told that they are installed / bolted onto the body of the vehicle. The same goes for the Kingsley step boards that I've seen at TJM and ARB. I've read that installing side steps onto the body of vehicles aren't as strong as bolting them onto the chassis. And I've also heard that it can damage the sills over time. I only use my Hilux on-road, never off-road and the side steps are just to help family members in and out of the car. I'm quite certain that the genuine Toyota side steps will do the job, but I was wondering if there's anything else I should know or if there are any tips or any recommendations? Are the genuine side steps just the same as the ones that you see on current Hilux models? And just with the Kingsley step boards, can anyone with them actually confirm if they are in fact bolted onto the body, because ARB say they are bolted onto the chassis, but I gave Kingsley a call and they said they are bolted onto the body and so I assume they are. Thanks in advance, dummyhalf