Safety Warning
DIY auto repair can cause serious injury, fire, or vehicle damage. These guides are for informational purposes only. Always follow OEM torque specs, wear PPE, and consult a certified mechanic if you are unsure. You are solely responsible for your safety.
Component Testing: Tercel
- Drain coolant from radiator and remove TVSV. Immerse threaded end of valve in container of water with thermometer. See Figure.
- Using ice, cool water in container to below 45°F (7°C). Check that air flows from port "J" to port "M" and "L" and from port "K" to port "N". Heat water to 63-122°F (17-50°C). Check that air flows from port "K" to port "N" and "L" and from port "J" to port "M".
Apply more than 3.5 in. Hg vacuum to port "S". Plug ports "R" and "Y", then blow air into port "T". Air should flow out ports "U", "V", and "Z" and, on Calif. models, "W". With no vacuum at port "S", no air should flow.
Use the Manual With the Right Hardware
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When to See a Mechanic
Stop DIY work and contact a certified mechanic immediately if any of the following apply:
- • You smell fuel, burning insulation, or see smoke.
- • Brakes feel soft, pull hard to one side, or make grinding noises.
- • The engine overheats, stalls repeatedly, or misfires under load.
- • You are missing required tools, torque specs, or safe lifting equipment.
- • You are not confident in the next step or safety outcome.
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