86toyota

First ,buy a engine stethoscope(or use a long screwdriver and put your ear on the handle end)being careful of moving parts and test everywhere on the valve cover and oil pan. It might be a bad cam bearing due to lack of oil. If it's possible remove valve cover, have someone start engine and see if it's pumping oil to the top end. A bad cam bearing can make a very loud knock.

Secret Squirell

Removed the cover, cranked it and it pumps to the top end (spews) ... lots of splash going on there.
The noise is more of a loud tap which disappears (momentarily) if gradually accelerted. I have not tried to drive it, just slowly increased rpm until I heard the noise come back, then shut off the motor. When I tried the steth location method I basically heard the tap everywhere I tested. It did seem louder at the left rear (drivers side) of the engine near the cylinder. I've been checking EBAY for parts/blocks/etc (probably a bad place to look) just in case. I hear its cheaper to replace an engine than tear it down and rebuild. I know if I get into it I'll want to fix or rebuild everything (heads, etc) which may add up quick. When I'm satisfied I've looked at every possibility I will tear into it ... and probably find nothing ... lol.

TRunner

I remeber being there thinking all i was going to do was fix a cam or valve...

Now I am paying almost 1000 just to get my block back.

Secret Squirell

That does seem pricey. I've priced some outfit on Ebay who's offering a master rebuild kit for around 250.00. Priced heads (rebuilt) at about 300.00. If need be maybe I'll go that route. It may well be worth the 1000.00 your'e shelling out. All I'm trying to beat right now is the winter .... if I can get my rig running in time for snow driving I'll be happy. My other vehicle (running - Chevy full size gas guzzling van) is somewhat dependable ... but sucks in snow.
Keep me up on your situation .... I will mine too.

Secret Squirell

So how is Ebay for biz anyway?

TRunner

I got the rebuild kit from TOR (which I think someone in here trashed that connection or something) for about $225.
The heads were $305 with one replaced valve.
The block and crank should have only been about $250, but now I am getting all new pistons as a couple cylinders were out of round. So they quoted me as to be under $1000.

TRunner

Who do you sue/collect from/get problems fixed when something goes wrong with the transaction? I don't mind it for some things, but engine components taht I would prefer to be factory, I woudl like to be able to press for some recoarse at a tangible company. just my $0.02...

Secret Squirell

The question has to do with private sellers. That is where I guess you have to be willing to gamble. There is feedback you can levy for or against a seller, or buyer for that matter, but how much is that worth.
The stuff I'm looking at is factory, they use Ebay to distribute their goods as a means to an end. Its not actually up for auction but listed as "buy now" items. I don't know what the quality is. Here is a link to the site ... maybe you can help.
Seller

Secret Squirell

Oh .... click on "seller" ... that is the link

TRunner

I've never had problems with eBay in the past. I like the price on his oversized valves for my 3vze!!!! I am probably going to do that mod someday, but I missed my chance this go round.

Just know it is a gamble!

Secret Squirell

Did you happen to see the '86 for sale for 1400.00? Of course its in central Arizona.
Oh yea ... havn't mentioned it before but love that pic (yur avatar)!