Drain and refill coolant:
New air filter:
Inspect and clean PCV valve:
Check refrigerant and AC for proper operation:
Change cabin filter:
Road test. All set!
as always a treat expansion tank has some coolant residue.
Yes, I keep the coolant at the top line, and it overflows a little bit while towing. A little brush action cleans it right up.
new threadsealer applied to old PCV valve or screwed in dry?
With threadsealer. I had a new one ready to go too, but the old one worked perfectly. I just cleaned, resealed and reinstalled the old one, and checked the hoses for any leaks.
The LS430 had its first unplanned repair after nearly 18 years in service. The AC pressure switch needed replacement.
Luckily, access is easy:
Only one connector:
New switch in place:
AC is working again.
A major planned service was done on the LX470 by replacing all four AHC Globes, followed by bleeding and adjustment of pressures:
Changed the front passenger door lock actuator on the LX470.
Just an oil change on the M3.
After nearly 18 years, the damping on the air struts was getting a little weak, so I decided to change the front pair.
Raise the car securely:
and remove the tire and the top cover:
Then remove three 14 mm nuts and expose the adjuster:
then remove the connector and twist the adjust counter-clockwise to release the clips:
Take an RTV silicone tube cap and prepare it by tapering the nose and cutting a slot so that it looks like this:
Now you have the replacement for the Special Service Tool recommended by Lexus.
Locate the air line grommet between the engine and the strut tower:
Pull off the grommet to expose the first clip. Press the two tabs at 12 and 6 o clock and pull the first clip off:
then insert the plastic tool to release the second clip and pull the air line off:
Then loosen the strut by removing the three 14 mm nuts at the top and the 17 mm bolt at the bottom:
the strut will drop out between the brake line and the control arm:
Compare the old and new struts:
and install the new one by reversing the procedure:
Repeat on the other side and lower the car:
It will look horrible like this:
But let it run for a bit and it is back to normal:
Check for leaks and enjoy the rejuvenated magic carpet ride.
The rear door speakers on the LX470 need new foam surrounds:
Nearly 18 years old, and I still cannot find a better highway cruiser.
Sounds fabulous again:
