Looking for advise- mechanic recommendation

Hi Tundra Community,
I am a new member and look forward to be part of this forum!
I have a 2007 sr5 v8 5.7 sr5. Now has 248k miles. I own it for 9 months. Replaced most of suspension, tires, belts, did headgasket and plugs, and 2 oil changes.
I got ticking sound that started 1 week ago and I found yellow sludge in oil cap. I am looking for reliable independent mechanic that has toyota experience to get it checked out to diagnose to find source, tensioner/timing chain, pvc valve, whatever the issues are. I am located on Long Island, New York.
Thank you for input/referrals.

 

Welcome from OKC! Head gasket or valve cover gasket? Big difference. How far do you drive it? It needs to burn off condensation in the crankcase. Pour in a quart of ATF and drive it for 20 minutes, then change the oil using 5W-30. Might need to repeat a few times to hopefully eliminate the ticking.

 

My bet, valve cover gasket.

 

Read my post again, I added a suggestion.

 

You can also remove the belt and then start it to verify that none of the ticking is coming from the external components.

 

Thank you very much .Are you saying ATF / quart transmission fluid to mix with oil? Replacing with 5w30 synthetic or regular?

 

Yes, automatic transmission fluid has strong detergents that will help clean varnish. I would use 5w-30 synthetic.

 

Thank you again. Much appreciated.

 

Welcome from NY.

 

Thanks Jim.

 

Welcome from LA (Lower Alabama)! I never knew this stuff. I learn something new at least every week on this site!