91 3VZE Motor in a 94 4runner
 

I just bought this 4runner and knew the engine had been replaced by a used Japanese motor. My mechanic recommended I have the timing belt checked. Good thing, it was really cracked. The wierd thing is it was cracked on the outside rather then the inside. I was surprised the PO's mechanic did not replace that when he put the motor in. It was done about 15K ago. My questions are:

1. Could the belt be cracked on the outside because the motor had sat awhile and the belt dry rotted?

2. The used motor is a 91 which had a different water pump and timing belt tensioner then a 94. What other changes were made to the 3VZE? My mechanic said the 91 and older have some differences from the 92-95. Any additional info would be appreciated.

Thanks
Jeff

they do tend to crack on the outside of the belt.when po had it installed they may not have taken the front cover off to ck inside.you don't have to take it off to change the engine.yes their are differences from the 91-92 engines.subtle though they may be you should buy parts for a 91.

Thanks for the reply. I will have to keep the year difference in mind for parts in the future. I understand the HG issues with these engines but were Blown HG more common in certain years or across the board with the 3VZE?

issue for all 3vze