So I found an '89 Toyota 4runner, 3VZE, auto trans that I could get for free/scrap price from a friend. It has been sitting for 8 or 9 years outside with a blown HG. However he also has another 3.0 out of a parts pickup (unsure of year) that used to run good, has 80,000 miles and would need new seals. My goal would be to switch motors and use it as a daily driver. Are V6's like that even worth fixing? Also what kind of fuel mileage should I expect? I am going to go take a look at it sometime is there anything in regards to frame/ body rust etc that I should especially keep an eye out for?

Thanks

 

This might not be the right vehicle for you based on the first question "is a 3vze worth fixing?"


If you're concerned about the MPG and do any significant amount of daily driving, this is not the DD for you. Grab a cheap beater that gets 30+mpg and it will of paid for itself in the savings after a year. The EPA mpg is about 15 mpg for this v6. (That's four gallons a day to get me anywhere near public transport. 4*5*50=1000gal * $3 = 3k. Versus my beater that gets low-mid 30s 1.5k in fuel, cost 400$ to purchase, and a few hundred to insure.)

It's a 30 year old four wheel drive, suspect and inspect Everything for abuse! If the frame plugs aren't intact expect the frame is full of mud. See the rust spot on the fender, there is a similar point in the frame behind here that tends to collect dirt and water and proceeds to rust. This happens just from normal on road use where dust collects and blocks drain holes, if it's been in muddy water and not cared for it's worse.

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As long as you go into it knowing your return on investments of time and money are only going to pay dividends of smile lines. Snatch it up!