Which side of the 5VZ-FE 6 cyl engine are cylinders 2, 4 and 6?

I am diagnosing an issue and the code is P304 misfire on cylinder 4 and I am getting conflicting information everywhere I look as to which cylinders are on the driver side and which are on the passenger side underneath the ignition coils. The Chilton manual indicates the passenger side is 1-3-5, but in other places I am seeing 2-4-6.

I am barely a driveway mechanic, and tend to take it to the shop for most things outside my comfort level, but I believe I can change the ignition coil myself if it's on the passenger side either the one closest to the firewall or the middle one.

Appreciate any confirmation anyone can help with! I have an 01 Access Cab SR5 2WD Manual

 

Don't discredit the plug wires as the problem. Note that the V6 (if memory serves) uses a single coil for two cylinders, if that's not already known to you. I don't remember the pairings.

Swap coil positions to see if the code changes to another cylinder. If it doesn't change and you've never replaced the wires, replace them. Also, note the 5VZ uses different plugs, IIRC, I want to say they're forked? Maybe not. All things to think about.

 

That's possible too. I think I may take it to the shop across the street and have them do it after all. I am not all that confident in my skills. I am likely to get in over my head thinking I can do it and will end up getting a tow to the shop in the end anyway.

And you are correct, there are 3 coils for 6 cylinders. 1 and 4 are paired, and according to the diagram from the other person, that coil and wire is under some other things I would have to remove for access.

 

Yup - all correct. I would start with just the No 4 plug and see what happens. But all new Dual electrode sparklers (do Not go cheap with singles - they came from Japan with duals) and new wiring would be nice.

 

Spark Plugs - 90919-01192 (x 6)
Spark Plug Wires -

$111 19037-62010 Toyota Genuine Spark Plug Cord Set

19037-62010 (1 Set)

 

I have confidence in you. Honestly, this isn’t difficult and anyone here is happy to assist with sanity checks. Today is a good day to learn. On a difficulty scale 0-10, this is a 1, with very little you could mess up, and with a small win on this you could save a shitload of money, plus build up that confidence.

These trucks are relatively easy to work on, resist the urge to conflate it with rocket science