To remove the valve cover(s), start by taking off the distributor, followed by the
Timing Belt and camshaft pulley(s). Measure the camshaft thrust clearance using a dial indicator, ensuring the clearance does not exceed the maximum specifications; if it does, replace the camshaft or cylinder head. For the 3S-FE and 5S-FE exhaust camshaft, position the knock pin in the intake camshaft at 10 to 45 degrees left of vertical, secure the exhaust camshaft sub-gear to the main gear with a service bolt, and then remove the rear exhaust camshaft bearing cap bolts. Loosen the number 1, 2, and 4 exhaust camshaft bearing cap bolts in 1/4-turn increments, lifting off the first, second, and fourth bearing caps, while ensuring not to remove the center bearing cap bolts at this stage. After loosening the number 3 bearing cap bolts, detach the center cap, ensuring the camshaft moves up evenly. Lift the camshaft out and disassemble it by mounting it in a vise, installing a service bolt in the unthreaded hole, and rotating the sub-gear clockwise to release tension. Remove the sub-gear snap-ring, wave washer, sub-gear, and camshaft gear spring. For the intake camshaft, position the knock pin at 80 to 115 degrees left of vertical, detach the front intake camshaft bearing cap bolts, and follow a similar process to remove the bearing caps without prying. For the 4A-FE and 7A-FE engines, position the knock pin on the exhaust camshaft slightly above the cylinder head, remove the front intake camshaft bearing cap bolts, and secure the intake camshaft sub-gear to the main gear. Loosen the intake camshaft bearing cap bolts uniformly, lift off the bearing caps, and remove the camshaft. Disassemble the intake camshaft similarly to the exhaust camshaft. For reassembly, apply grease to the lifters and camshaft lobes, position the intake camshaft with the knock pin at 80 degrees left of vertical, and install the bearing caps in order, tightening them to the specified torque. Align the exhaust camshaft gear with the intake camshaft gear, install the bearing caps, and tighten the bolts. Finally, install the timing belt, check valve clearances, and complete the installation in reverse order of removal.