3.0 time to rebuild or SWAP???
05-06-2009, 11:39 AM
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3.0 time to rebuild or SWAP???
i know its the most recomended and debated subject on here but a combination of lazieness and dislike of the search function on this site lead me to just make a new thread....
my 90 4runner's 3.0 is getting pretty tired these days, it has over 400000 kms and had 110 compression on all cylinders
from what i have read i understand that there are some issues with wiring and the ecm when swapping. also i have heard that i'd need to find a 3.4 that had a 5spd to match up, extra bolt or something?
i've read a lot about the drawbacks and flaws of the 3.0 that has me on the fence since a lot of people on here defend it as well.
i have so much money into my truck at this point already that i cant ever sell it for what i spent, so the cost of the swap rebuild isnt that big of an issue as is the performance.
i just need a better idea of what i'd be getting into and what may be my best options... REBUILD OR SWAP???
my 90 4runner's 3.0 is getting pretty tired these days, it has over 400000 kms and had 110 compression on all cylinders
from what i have read i understand that there are some issues with wiring and the ecm when swapping. also i have heard that i'd need to find a 3.4 that had a 5spd to match up, extra bolt or something?
i've read a lot about the drawbacks and flaws of the 3.0 that has me on the fence since a lot of people on here defend it as well.
i have so much money into my truck at this point already that i cant ever sell it for what i spent, so the cost of the swap rebuild isnt that big of an issue as is the performance.
i just need a better idea of what i'd be getting into and what may be my best options... REBUILD OR SWAP???
05-06-2009, 11:50 AM
#2
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https://www.yotatech.com/forums/f89/ heres a link for ya
sounds like youve read some... And more is in order! there is an entire section on swaps how too's, issues, likes, dislikes.
Your decision
sounds like youve read some... And more is in order! there is an entire section on swaps how too's, issues, likes, dislikes.
Your decision
Last edited by fillsrunner4; 05-06-2009 at 11:54 AM.
05-06-2009, 12:22 PM
#3
Simple:
If ease, time, money the issue --> 3.0
If performance is the issue --> 3.4 or better. Everyone here will attest they like the engine more, and can do more with it, but this is no small job.
The only "real" flaw of the 3.0 is the head gasket...in theory if you get a rebuilt with the proper "new" gasket problem solved. My head gasket blew time #2 at 147,000. At repair, turns out head bolt holes shot (likely never properly done time #1), and am getting a reman 3.0 replacement (hopefully won't live to regret it, but comes with 2 year warranty).
If ease, time, money the issue --> 3.0
If performance is the issue --> 3.4 or better. Everyone here will attest they like the engine more, and can do more with it, but this is no small job.
The only "real" flaw of the 3.0 is the head gasket...in theory if you get a rebuilt with the proper "new" gasket problem solved. My head gasket blew time #2 at 147,000. At repair, turns out head bolt holes shot (likely never properly done time #1), and am getting a reman 3.0 replacement (hopefully won't live to regret it, but comes with 2 year warranty).
Last edited by Squiddy; 05-06-2009 at 12:24 PM.
05-06-2009, 10:08 PM
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https://www.yotatech.com/forums/f89/ heres a link for ya
sounds like youve read some... And more is in order! there is an entire section on swaps how too's, issues, likes, dislikes.
Your decision
sounds like youve read some... And more is in order! there is an entire section on swaps how too's, issues, likes, dislikes.
Your decision
Simple:
If ease, time, money the issue --> 3.0
If performance is the issue --> 3.4 or better. Everyone here will attest they like the engine more, and can do more with it, but this is no small job.
The only "real" flaw of the 3.0 is the head gasket...in theory if you get a rebuilt with the proper "new" gasket problem solved. My head gasket blew time #2 at 147,000. At repair, turns out head bolt holes shot (likely never properly done time #1), and am getting a reman 3.0 replacement (hopefully won't live to regret it, but comes with 2 year warranty).
If ease, time, money the issue --> 3.0
If performance is the issue --> 3.4 or better. Everyone here will attest they like the engine more, and can do more with it, but this is no small job.
The only "real" flaw of the 3.0 is the head gasket...in theory if you get a rebuilt with the proper "new" gasket problem solved. My head gasket blew time #2 at 147,000. At repair, turns out head bolt holes shot (likely never properly done time #1), and am getting a reman 3.0 replacement (hopefully won't live to regret it, but comes with 2 year warranty).
the two main reasons i am interested in the swap for a 3.4 are for HP and milage. and i would assume that it would be the easiest swap to make...
but on the other hand my 3.0 has served me well, aside from those same two points.
05-06-2009, 10:11 PM
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Your motor probably won't give up the ghost for at least another 60-100K. I wouldn't worry too much about it. Just deal with the lack of power/economy until then.
05-06-2009, 10:21 PM
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i can do that many kms in a year. i just want to start the research and planning and saving $ process, so that when it does go i have a back up ready to go and i'm not left with my thumb somewhere it shouldnt be or something...
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05-06-2009, 10:33 PM
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I meant to say 60-100K miles.
But most of the issues with swapping come from co$t. The 3.4 swap is a common, but pricey install. And depending on your location, it can be difficult to find a 3.4 that is in good condition for a decent price.
I once was serious about doing this swap. I still would like to do it, but I need a much better paying job to pay for something like that, and it is still not at all practical for me to do to my daily driver.
My advice is to weigh your options. The 3.4 swap sounds cool, and is.... but it is expensive, and even if you do it yourself, expect to spend nearly 2x as much on the swap than replacing it with a stock 3.0
But most of the issues with swapping come from co$t. The 3.4 swap is a common, but pricey install. And depending on your location, it can be difficult to find a 3.4 that is in good condition for a decent price.
I once was serious about doing this swap. I still would like to do it, but I need a much better paying job to pay for something like that, and it is still not at all practical for me to do to my daily driver.
My advice is to weigh your options. The 3.4 swap sounds cool, and is.... but it is expensive, and even if you do it yourself, expect to spend nearly 2x as much on the swap than replacing it with a stock 3.0
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