2007 Tundra 4x2 Crew Max Limited valve spring issues?

Suddenly coming across a lot of unfortunate stories of valve springs breaking in 07-10 models and completely killing the engine. I cant seem to find much info on this other than the sad stories. Not sure how to know if mine is at risk and should just replace now? I came across one comment that said it was one the machines making the springs in a certain Toyota factory that were defective. Not sure if that is accurate. Any help on this on how much to repair or how to know if it is a concern or not would be greatly appreciated. Thank you!

 

Where did you read all of these stories? Can’t say I’ve seen much about this. Only saw one tear down of a 5.7 on YouTube and it was for a valve spring issue.

 

Just doing some google searches on common issues with the Tundras and came across that same Youtube video I think you are talking about and starting searching more specifically to valve spring issues. It was odd because it was the first I have heard of this issue but once I started digging I found more and more stories.

 

Never heard of that issue, and I would not worry about it. Unless you plan to arbitrarily replace all your valve springs (and no guarantee those replacements are any better) then there's no point in worrying about it.

 

There is a saying, that if you're seeking for issues, you will find them. Most of those issues are few and far between, odds are a drunk driver will make short work of your parked Tundra before it really encounters an issue. I'm at 280k+ 07 5.7L.. My encounter was with broken snow chains that redesigned my bed sides.

 

Wouldn’t lose a wink of sleep over it. Leave er alone.

 

I'm familiar with the issue but from what I understand, it wasn't widespread. Don't know if they ever figured it out, but it would occur early in the life of the engine. If it hasn't happened by now, your probably good to go.

 

My 2010 just had a valve spring break. It didn't drop the valve. I caught it because of a misfire followed up by a sad compression test. Pulled the valve cover off and the number 7 intake valve spring is broken. Anybody try to fix this without pulling the head?

 

Sorry for the shit luck but at least you didn’t kill the engine.

@ViktorG @Ruggybuggy - is this possible?

 

Might be a tough job in the truck since you'll need to remove the camshaft and deal with timing, but I think it can be done. You'll need to find a universal valve spring compressor that can attach to the head. Use a compression test hose with the Schrader valve removed to keep the cylinder pressurized with air and that will keep the valve in place while you reinstall the new spring. Make sure you find all the pieces of the old spring before putting it all back together.

 

Ok, I'm going to dive in and give it a try. Wishing it wasn't the very rear spring.

 

If you study this situation very carefully, there may be a way to remove the broken spring and replace it with the new spring without having to remove the camshaft. Take a look at this sectional view:

The roller rocker arm is free to be removed since it simply rides on the hydraulic lash adjuster. Once that is done (camshaft needs to be in position similar as shown with lobe away from the valve). With cylinder at TDC compression, pressurize the combustion chamber to hold valve in place. Slide the new spring in place and use whatever spring compressor that exists for installing retainer and keepers. The valve can be lowered slightly to replace the roller rocker arm.

This is just an educated guess on my part and there may be interferences that might prevent this but it may be worth a try. If successful, it is a heck of a lot better than removing the camshaft.

Good luck and keep us posted.

Dan

 

Update...bought a $7.65 intake valve spring. Took the valve covers and DS timing chains out. Removed cam tower assy. Held valve up with compressed air and removed and replaced valve spring. Had to make my own spring compressor tool. The job isn't for the faint of heart. A spring retainer clip went shooting across the shop at one point. Thankfully Toyota dealer keeps a handful in stock. Buttoned it all up and she runs like a million dollars. Changed the oil and cleaned up the shop.

 

Thank you for you help everybody!!!!!!!
Mike

 

Did you have to open front of the engine and remove main timing chains to remove camshaft?
My cylinder 5 valve spring broke, but looks like it's the only damaged part, so thinking to tackle it myself.

 

Yup. Took the front off. Plenty of ytube's and such on this job. Only thing that I recomend, would be to use ziplock bags and a sharpie. Also took a bunch of pictures. Number 5 is pretty easy to access. If you need any pointers feel free to PM me.

 

Appreciate your help sir. Thank you

 

so i cant find the tool that allows you to compress a spring and put it in without having to remove the cam. Is there something you know of that would go in offset under the cam?

 

You'll have to remove the cam, not enough clearance otherwise. I did all the research . You will have to open timing cover and remove the chains. If you'll be working on driver side, it will be easier. When you'll get to the the spring compression, put it in vice, get 3 thick zip ties, soak them in 0w-20 oil, compress the spring tighten the zip ties, and you'll have enough room to put valve keepers without any compression tool. Then get needle nose pliers and slowly remove them. Let me know if you'll have more questions. It will be pain in the ass but it's doable. Also get Haynes manual, you'll need it.