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Toyota 3B B 11B 13B engine factory workshop and repair manual

Tools & PPE
- Metric socket set and ratchet, combination wrenches (8–19 mm range)
- Small torque wrench (capable of 5–50 Nm)
- Short screwdriver or 6 mm Allen/hex (some models use slotted/hex adjusters)
- Feeler gauge set (0.05–1.0 mm)
- Prybar or long screwdriver to rotate output/driveshaft/tire slowly
- Inspection mirror, shop light, clean rags, brake cleaner
- Jack, jackstands, wheel chocks
- Drain pan, gloves, safety goggles
- New gasket or RTV for inspection cover, new transmission fluid
- Replacement band(s) or servo kit (if worn)

Safety first
- Work on level ground, wheels chocked. Support vehicle securely on jackstands — never rely on a jack.
- Wear eye protection and gloves. Keep hands away from rotating parts.
- Transmission should be warm to do a correct adjustment (drive 8–15 min); work hot fluids carefully.
- If you must run the engine during adjustment, be extra cautious of moving parts and hot surfaces. Prefer the manual (cold) method if you’re unsure.
- Always consult the exact Toyota service manual for the specific transmission model used with your 3B/B/11B/13B — variations exist between transmissions and years.

Overview (what you are adjusting and why)
Older Toyota automatics that pair with B‑series diesels use apply bands (reverse and low/1–2). The adjustment sets the clearance between the band lining and the drum so the band can properly engage without dragging or slipping. If the lining is excessively worn, adjustment cannot correct operation — replacement is required.

Preparation
1. Warm up the transmission to operating temperature (drive 8–15 minutes).
2. Park on level ground, set parking brake, chock wheels.
3. Leave engine idling if you will use a procedure requiring engine running. If you’ll use the cold/manual method, engine can be off but transmission warm is preferred.
4. Raise vehicle as needed and support on jackstands to access the transmission side cover.

Access
1. Locate the band inspection/adjustment cover on the side of the transmission (rectangular cover held by several bolts). Clean exterior thoroughly to keep dirt out.
2. Place a drain pan under the area (small seepage may occur on removal).
3. Remove the cover bolts and remove cover. Remove old gasket material and clean around opening.

Identify adjuster
- Inside you will see the band strap around the drum with an adjuster screw & locknut (sometimes a slotted or hex-headed adjuster) at the strap end.
- Note which band you are working on (reverse band vs 1–2 band). Procedures differ which direction you check drag; follow the steps below for whichever band you are adjusting.

Two safe adjustment methods (pick one appropriate for your confidence and access):
A. Cold/manual “feel the drag” method (safe, no running engine)
B. Running or live‑feed method (used in some manuals; more hazardous because engine runs)

A. Cold/manual method (recommended if unsure)
1. Loosen the locknut on the adjuster a few turns so the adjuster is free to move.
2. Using a wrench on the adjuster, turn the adjuster clockwise to take up slack until the band just contacts the drum. How to tell:
- Rotate the output shaft or drive flange slowly by hand (through the driveshaft or by turning a wheel if in gear and diff is free) in the direction that would make that band engage. You should feel a very slight resistance/drag when the band contacts the drum.
- For the low/1–2 band, rotate the output in the forward direction. For the reverse band, rotate in reverse.
3. Once you feel a slight drag, back the adjuster off a specified amount: typically back off 1/4 to 1/2 turn (some manuals specify 1/3–1/2 turn). This provides the correct clearance for thermal expansion and avoids constant drag.
4. Hold the adjuster in that position and tighten the locknut while keeping the adjuster from turning. Use a small torque but snug—typically ~10–20 Nm (consult manual). Re-check drag after locknut is tightened and back off further if necessary.
5. Repeat for the other band(s) if applicable.

B. Running/live method (used on some Toyota transmissions — follow manual)
1. With transmission warm and engine idling, set selector to the specified position for the band being adjusted (the manual will state the gear — e.g., “selector in D or 1” for low band; reverse for reverse band). Do NOT grab under the vehicle or put fingers near rotating parts.
2. Loosen locknut, turn adjuster until slight drag is felt while the engine runs and the band is being applied (you will usually hear or feel the band engage).
3. Back off the adjuster specified number of turns (e.g., 1/4–1/2 turn) and resecure locknut to specified torque.
4. Recheck operation by shifting through gears and road testing.

Reassembly & verification
1. Clean mating surfaces and install new gasket or RTV when you reinstall the cover. Torque cover bolts to a light even torque.
2. Check transmission fluid level and top to spec with correct Toyota fluid.
3. Road test with light loads, verify shift quality and absence of slip or harsh engagements.
4. Recheck band adjustment after a short road break-in (bands settle) and after a few hundred kilometers.

How the adjuster tool is used (practical)
- The adjuster is turned clockwise to tighten the band (take up slack) and counter-clockwise to loosen.
- Locknut holds the adjuster position. Use a wrench on the adjuster head and a second wrench on the locknut to prevent rotation while tightening the locknut.
- Some transmissions use a slotted or hex adjuster; use the correct driver to avoid rounding the adjuster.

When replacement is required (what to inspect)
- Inspect band lining: if glazed, cracked, oil‑soaked, or worn thin (significantly less than new thickness), replacement is required.
- Excessive wear will cause continual slipping and adjustment won’t help.
- If band metal is deformed, straps or rivets loose, or servo seals leaking, plan for band/servo rebuild or full transmission service.
- Replace cover gasket, and if you drained fluid, replace filter (if equipped).

Common pitfalls & how to avoid them
- Over-tightening: makes band drag and overheat, causing premature wear. Avoid by backing off the adjuster the specified amount after “just touch.”
- Under-tightening: causes slip and burnt linings. If shifting is soft or slipping persists after adjustment, inspect linings for wear.
- Not warming the transmission: cold adjustment can give wrong clearance once hot.
- Not checking in the correct direction: you must test rotation in the direction that band engages—testing the opposite direction gives misleading “no drag.”
- Rounding adjuster head: use proper size socket or screwdriver.
- Forgetting to re-torque locknut correctly: can back out under load.
- Reusing badly damaged gaskets or contaminated bolts: replace gaskets, clean bolts and threads.

Final notes
- Exact specifications (amount to back off, locknut torque, lining thickness) vary by transmission model. The above method is broadly applicable to Toyota A‑family and similar older automatics used with 3B/B/11B/13B engines but confirm values in the factory service manual for the specific transmission model in your vehicle.
- If band lining requires replacement, expect a moderate teardown (band removal often requires some transmission disassembly or partial removal). Kits are available (band, lining, servo seals). Consider a professional rebuild if multiple bands or internal damage is present.

Done — perform adjustments carefully and re-check after driving.
rteeqp73

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