Cerch Garage · Articles
Every article here is compiled from the data in one of the interactive guides, and links back to that guide for the full tabs, listings and parts data.
8 articles · 3 cars and counting
The first-generation Toyota RAV4 (1994–2000) rarely dies from its engine. It dies from rust. These are the structural rust points to inspect, from the guide data: rear trailing arm mounts, subframe, rear arches, fuel filler area, and the hard lines underneath.
The 3S-FE in the first-generation RAV4 (1994–2000) is a non-interference engine: a snapped timing belt strands you, but it bends nothing. The interval owners actually use, the full parts list for the job, and the 1-7/8 turn tension method, compiled from the guide.
A first-generation RAV4 that loses coolant and runs hot is not always a blown head gasket: an aftermarket cap holding 35 psi against a 13 psi spec faked one for months. The five tests, cheapest first, from the guide: cap, compression, pressure test, block test with a control, and a $30 oil analysis.
Every torque figure in the Gen 1 RAV4 guide, organized by job: timing belt, spark plugs, torque-to-yield head bolts, oil pan FIPG at 48 in-lb, CV axle nut at 159 ft-lb, lug nuts at the factory 76 ft-lb, and the Torsen swap. Watch the inch-pound specs.
Measured, not catalog, numbers for the documented Gen 1 RAV4 lift: Old Man Emu springs and rear shocks with KYB front struts gave +2 inches in front, +3 in the rear, and fuel-tank clearance up from 7.25 to 10.5 inches. Plus the two fitting rules and the fastener safety rule.
A torn CV boot on a Gen 1 RAV4 is a $50 question, not a $500 one. Why the guide says genuine Toyota axles outlast bargain remans, how to recognize one, the year-sensitive boot kits 04438-12305 and 04438-12304, the two greases that are not interchangeable, and the axle seal to replace while you are in there.
Five verified lift kits for the 2016-2023 Toyota Tacoma compared: Bilstein, ICON, and Rough Country, with lift heights, what's included, fitment notes, and prices as listed Oct 27, 2026.
Alexander Migl, Free license (own work; version unverified)
Buying a Mercedes-Benz W108 or W109 (1965–1972)? The inspection list from the guide data: sills and floor pans first, kingpins, air suspension on the W109 and 6.3, the M189 injection pump, and how to verify a genuine 300SEb (chassis 108.015, about 2,737 built).
Ethan Llamas, CC BY-SA 4.0
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