People advise "replacing" PCV valves when they get sticky, but it seems that Toyota's all-metal ones (Tacomas, etc.) merely require cleaning with a solvent or just hot water and dish soap.
A PCV valve is just a weak spring-loaded stopper; a one-way port for crankcase gases. As long as the spring isn't broken (it doesn't seem to have a tough duty cycle), shouldn't it last indefinitely?
I've seen plastic types that look a bit flimsy, but I don't see why a sturdy metal one needs to be replaced. Any thoughts?
JT