Update:
The new local mechanic said he couldn't adjust the valves, and didn't know anyone who could. He could do the compression test but hasn't gotten back to me about cost. So far they have only tuned up the engine (said plugs were fouled and some had incorrect gap) on the search for why the check engine light is on (my Bosch engine tester said both "engine runs lean" and "engine runs rich"). I seriously doubt that is what is going on, but I guess it needed done anyway. They are going to try to work on it more next week.
Called nearest Toyota Dealer, and the gal at the service desk quoted $310 to do compression test, and sure they could adjust....until she called back and said she'd spoken with the lead mechanic, who said that on an engine this old, if a valve had low compression, it would need a new engine instead of shims. The reasoning was that little rubber bits around the valves would tear up during the adjustment, and it would kill the valve and you'd be back to engine replacement anyhow.
My motor-head daughter, who worked several years as Asst Mgr in parts, told me that if the camper had valves checked and adjusted every 30K miles, it might have helped, but to do a first one at 100K miles, it may not be recommended. I haven't had the camper the entire time but I don't think it's ever been done.
Sheesh. And of course I was mixing up "compression" with "checking valve clearance." So I guess I have to get back with my local guy and ask if he can do THAT.
Of course, now I have TWO campers of the same age! The 93 Warrior rear dinette has the 100k, the 92 Itasca rear bath has 33K.
Thanks guys! Sue
