2012 Tundra 4.6L v8 should I buy

I’m considering buying a 2012 Tundra 4x4 4.6L V8 Crew Cab 5 1/2 ft bed with 255k on it. Interior and body are clean and owner has paperwork for regular maintenance and recent clean inspection, and he’s firm on 8500. Something to buy or not buy?

 

If you need a truck, this one checks your boxes and can afford the $8500, then I don’t see why not. Pics or the listing would help.

 

My work truck is a 2013 with the 4.6. It's been used as a work truck and is still working perfectly. I wouldn't hesitate.

 

That’s a workhorse truck. I had a 2011 4.6L for 150k miles, great truck.

 

+1. I had a 2013 Double Cab SR5 with the 4.6. Solid truck.

 

It’s the same architecture as the 5.7, just different displacement. No belts, timing chain.

 

Why people are afraid of timing belts? They last 100+k miles, cheap to replace and usually a DIY-friendly type of job. I did many timing belts.

 

Replaced mine twice on my 2006. I'm meticulous so it took me most of a Saturday each time. Expensive ($500+ for parts) and somewhat complex, especially if one is not that experienced in engine disassembly (I am, having been an auto mechanic for years several decades ago).

At my age (74), I don't care to do these types of maintenance jobs, fluids and filters is about it. I don't trust outside mechanics to work on my vehicles unless it is something I can't (or won't) do and I've found a reputable shop to engage.

Timing chains and hydraulic valve actuators all the way.

Dan

 

It’s more like $250 in parts. And timing chain tensioners go bad too. But I hear ya

 

First kit was around $250 or so as you said but it was a simple kit and some aftermarket parts (not the belt or water pump as I recall).

Second kit had many more parts, all OEM (Aisan if I spelled that correctly). Plus I replaced all of the spark plugs and changed the valve cover gaskets, top and bottom radiator hoses and thermostat. Those were not part of the kit but contributed to the $500+ cost. I also replaced the alternator brushes since I had the alternator out on the bench.

Dan

 

Rockauto.com has the Aisin kit for $183

 

Wow, that is a great deal, missed out on that one. Mine included the serpentine belt as well so there is a little adder for that.

But also, I'm going from my feeble memory since the last time I did a belt replacement on the 2006 was about 7 years ago just before my Daughter bought it and took it home.

Dan

 

Great that you do your own timing belts.
For most, it's too big a job for the casual wrencher. To get a mechanic to do it is $1k and up. Actually haven't priced any in a few years, so I am sure even more these days.