Chicago Shout-out: Any Shop or Mechanic for 22re in *Chicago* area?

[The Arborist]

Howdy all!

Anyone know a older Toyota and/or 22RE specialist or shop in the Chicago area? I have been searching around and nothing is turning up. With how big this city is there has to be someone?

Looking to get a rebuilt engine or possible timing chain replacement/other parts. Thinking it would be cheaper to find someone 'local'/bring them parts rather than order one from the west-coast.

Seems odd that I would have to go to a random untrusted, unknowledgeable on older Toyota/22RE mechanic with how huge Chicago is.

Thanks guys!

Read the story on my 4runner purchase here with pictures (towards the bottom): http://www.expeditionportal.com/for...s-your-Toyota-4runner-tacoma-or-truck/page439

 

[codybutz]

I think you will have a hard time finding a shop that specializes in one auto brand here in Chicago, that is not a dealership. We do not have the market that would support it like they do out west. The last dedicated 4x4 shop, that I know of at least has been closed for sometime now and I actually think they recently tore the building down, one block East of Western Ave. on Irving Park road.

 

[Wainiha]

Maybe ask TTORA or Marlin Crawler. Those guys might have some help.

 

[Stone_Blue]

Here's a good write-up on the process for a TC replacement.
The most important thing is to get quality parts, and most especially, a kit that has METAL chain guides (BOTH guides-see below), and ALL Japanese parts. You want Aisin and Koyo brands. DONT let the mechanic source the parts, if you can help it...Get your own parts, then take them to the mech to install...For a competent mech, should only be about 6hrs labor...No more than 8hrs...

I highly recommend sourcing the parts from either of the sites listed at the beginning of the article. I have dealt with BOTH DOA Racing and engnbldr...I've changed TC's in four 22R(E)'s using parts from them...Excellent parts and service...The DJ Rock kits at engnbldr, are good kits...I know both the "owners" used to be active on many of the Toyota 4x4 forums...Not sure if they still are, since I got out of the 1st & 2nd Gen toys a few years ago...Looks like the DOA link in the article is outdated. Here are the guides you want: http://doaracingengines.com/4-cylinder-engine/timing-chain-guides/
They may seem pricey, but are definately worth it, if you plan on getting another 120K+ miles. Broken plastic guides cause much more severe, and costlier, engine damage. Thats why they sell kits both with and without new TC engine covers...

I agree with Wainiha...MarlinCrawler forums is a good place to start...Also IH8Mud.com, 4x4Wire.com, and YotaTech.com

http://www.4crawler.com/4x4/CheapTricks/EngineMods/TimingChain.shtml

 

[mtnbike28]

I would join Mud and ask here:

http://forum.ih8mud.com/forums/il-windy-city-land-cruisers.48/