Hello, I am new to the board and need some help with an engine problem. I know a fair bit about engines but next to nothing about Toyota engines specifically. My brother has a 93 Toyota pickup with a 4 cylinder 22 R-E engine. Recently it began running rough, the mechanic says the time timing chain has skipped 2 teeth, and he needs a new engine. Now the timing chain skipping matches the symptoms so that makes sense. But I do not see how this could lead to the whole engine needing to be replaced. If the chain had broken I could see now the pistons may have hit the valves and needing a new head or rebuilt, but I would not think skipping 2 teeth would be out of time enough to cause the valves to hit. I guess what I am asking here is does the mechanics opinion sound correct, would this really cause the engine to be totaled? Sadly I live to far from my brother to look at it myself. Thanks,

 

Check the chain first before falling for the you need a new engine and we can hook you up scam. Have him go get a second option where is he if your in Ak.? may be able to find someone on here that can take a look at it for him.

Chances are the drivers side guide has worn out and you need a new timing kit , get the engnbldr.com kit and check to make sure the timing cover is not worn through if so change that to.

 

Welcome to Yotatech!!!

Dude, get a second opinion!!! Post pics here and we'll help ya out!!!

Wheres the AK Yotatechrs at??!??!

 

Thanks, for the reply's. My brother is in Juneau, Alaska, so I have not seen it and am trying to help but it is hard over the phone. I will pass on what has been said, and see if he can get pictures and second opinion. Thanks

 

if the chain skipped two teeth, then maybe the pistons have hit valves.
whether that means the whole engine needs rebuilt is a matter of philosophy.

First thing I would do is a leak down test to verify that the valves are seating properly (which would also rule out bent valves caused by being hit by pistons).
Next would be to replace the chain and guides and do a compression test.
If the compression comes out okay- everything is fine.

Many mechanics will always jump at the worse-case issue and charge for fixing that and won't cut a break if it was simpler than that to fix.