Fuel Filter

Hi, I recently bought a 2000 model Tacoma this is my first Toyota. I really like this little truck, but I have a few questions already. I have noticed recently when I reach approx. 60 mph in this 5spd 2.7 liter that the truck spits and sputters a little the power is no longer that good. I am trying to eliminate possible problems starting with addative to clean injectors,water in fuel, ect.. next I want to change the fuel filter. Which leads me to the first question. Where is it hidden on this truck?
Next, I hear a vibration from the underside when I shift from one gear the next, not always but more frequent as time passes. I have been under the truck looking for anything lose and really see nothing that is'nt very solid. As you can tell I am not a mechanic by any means but I do want to learn more about this truck and how to possibly fix problems whenever possible. If anyone has info. that would help I thank you now and appreciate your time helping a rookie.

Possum,
welcome to AF.
your filter is stashed pretty neatly under the intake manifold on the driver's side, near the starter.
some of the 2.7s (I think the TRD PreRunners) had them like the 3.4s, on the back firewall, but if yours is like mine, and you are not wanting to yank anything to get to it, then the best time is when it's cool, and you still may want to pull the front driver's tire (or plan on doing it during a tire rotation, as one of the bracket bolts is easier to access with the tire, and the rubber flap on the frame by the A-arm out of the way.

as far as vibration, is it 2 or 4WD? how many miles?
if it only occurs during shift points, I'd say maybe the trans mount or possibly the carrier (center support) bearing, holding the two-piece driveshaft together; or u-joints need lubed or replaced, depending on mileage and service.
one way to assist in diagnosing this is (in 2WD if four wheel, or ALL tires need to be off ground) jacking the rear up, putting it on stands(and still keeping the jack on the rear differential too), and have someone inside the cab shifting and revving for you(with their foot ready on the brake as well; safety first), while you can be laying BESIDE (not under)the vehicle, looking under the carriage to see and/or hear the culprit better. mounts especially, as the weight of the transmission and/or the propshaft will compress the rubber, and it will "look" solid, but separate under load.

hope this helps,
chris
nrt racing

I replaced my fuel filter on my 96 tacoma 2.7L, yes the fuel filter is up underneith the intake manifold, it was extremley difficult to slide your hands in to get to the 2 bolts, which mount it to the side of the engine block, you also have 2 more bolts for the fuel lines. I've replaced Clutches and starters, I found this job to be one of the most challenging, it will make a simple brake job seem like childs play. The part is cheap, less then 20 bucks and both Fram and Bosch and several others make it. Since repalcing my fuel filter, my car runs better at high RPM.