Ok guys.. I bought a project 4runner. It's got a 22RE that needs to be rebuilt, a transmission that needs rebuilding, and a paint job.

First thing.. I am planning on having Marlin rebuild the transmission for me, and regear 1st to make it super low, like on his website. The website says 2 months for rebuilds. I can deal with that, it will give me time to take care of the engine.

The engine is making a ticking noise, similar to the sound of either a valve doing something weird or a timing chain guide thats broken and the chain is abrading the head. Also, it burns oil. Not tons, but .. it visibly smokes on acceleration, so I'm thinking it's gonna need piston rings too. I'm thinking it may end up needing a new head, as I drove it nearly 60 miles from Albuquerque to where it sits now.

What do you guys think, should I find another engine (and where should I get it?) or should I pull that one, inspect the damage and then rebuild and replace as necessary? If I buy a new engine, I'll have a spare (the one I pull out) that I can rebuild and then put back in. But if I just rebuild, the cost will be.. half.. or less?

 

tear it down and see what condition the block and head is in. Based on condition you rebuild or find a reman engine or a good used motor.

 

I just called a friend's dad who has always had Toyotas and he said he knows of an already rebuilt 22RE that he might be able to obtain for me. If thats the case I'm taking that one and I'll rebuild the other over time.