AboutTim Expertise Any Toyota, especially Camry, Corolla, or Geo/Chev Prizm problems. Heavy experience with ECM,sensor,diagnostic issues, driveablilty, starting, fuel,charging, electrical, overall mechanical engine/transmission, and suspension problems. If I can't answer a question correctly in a timely manner I will search for the answer.
Experience I have 32 years experience in automotive field as a diagnostic technician. I analyze and correct problems on Toyota cars. I manage a car care organization for my church. The church has approximately 9000 members We provide diagnostic and repair services for low income individuals on a volunteer basis. I personally have owned and driven Toyotas for 27 years. My children, grandchildren, father and mother drive Toyotas. I have converted many friends to Toyotas.
Education/Credentials Unrelated; Computer Science Degree.
My experience has been self taught, always learning. I am not a parts replacer! I've seen way to many parts replaced by shops or individuals that don't have a clue, eventually I get called to resolve the issue. Most of the time its something simple like a bad ground, broken wire, gas cap, or dirty sensor(02 or MAF), etc.
Sensors are there to send a signal back to the computer that something is off slightly, that doesn't mean the sensor is bad!
Expert: Tim Date: 7/6/2008 Subject: oil in exhuast
Question Hi, recently noticed moisture coming out of tailpipe. This was after starting it first thing in the morning. Look and smelled like oil splatters mixed in. The truck has 190000 miles, head gasket was replaced around 170000. This is a 1986 4x4 with 22r engine. Also runs rough at first, I have to raise the rpms to "clear-up" what sounds like a baffling noise. Any advice would be good advice. Thanks.
Answer Gary,
All Toyotas drip water when you first start them. The
black soot is normal also, mixed with water would appear to be oil.
Its a 22r so that means a carburator, Its probably running a little
rich which would explain black soot in tailpipe. Try putting some
carburator cleaner in the gas tank. Check all vacuum hoses for cracks
or disconnect. Make sure the air filter is not dirty and plugs are
good.
