Hello and thanks in advance for any advise.
I've just purchased a 94 4runner (V6-3.0 EFI & 4WD) with a blown head. It has 99.4K orig miles on it and visually the engine looks pretty good.
Also I saw some what looks like sludge on the inside of the cap, however there was none to be seen on the inside parts of the engine, (at least from the sm. opening of the cap).
Browsing through this and other forums, I have noticed that other people have had similar issues with same yr. model.
Any advise on how to go about addressing the issue? Should I have it fixed, (head resurfaced) or go for a used engine switch?
Or should I look into a remanufactured engine and if so, does anyone have a lead?
Also I have heard from people that there are used engines shipped from Japan that have 30-40K on them, does anyone know anything about that?
Thanks!
Sabah

 

I just got a reman'd one from orientengine.com. and so far so good. theyre a great company to do service with. $1999 for the engine plus 425 for the core exchange

 

For a starting point I would check with your local dealership, have the run a check with your vin# to see if the headgasket recall has been done. Took mine in at 138000, new gasket, head resurfacing, no charge. Had them do the timing belt while the had it apart $125.00. The truck is happy now.

 

3.4L swap ?

 

sludge inside the cap doesnt always mean a blown head gasket. a lot of short trips to the beer distributor and not fully allowing the motor to warm up can cause condesation in the motor which usually ger stuck up top (in the cap) i have always had sludge in my cap even after doing a timing chain and HG job but i have 171 psi across all cylinder (22re)

 

It's not unusual to have a small amount of water vapor in the block. If you think you have a BHG, check the compression and the radiator for vacuum or bubbles.

 

Update.

Got a blown head gasket for sure.
Getting both redone with Steel Slipper-plate style gaskets, also a valve job as well, and a new belt. Should I ask the shop to get a master enginebuilders' kit (new bolts and all) or just let them handle it as they seem fit?
While I'm paying to have it all opened up, does anyone have any suggestions as to anything else I should address???
Waterpump, lower-engine etc.?
It's my 1st T4R and man I want it done right!
I CAN"T WAIT!!! https://www.yotatech.com/newreply.php?do=newreply&p=936022#
Thanks for all the help!

 

Just came from the shop and found out that the head gasket failed at #1 and #6 heads. The Metal rings around the pistons were both broken.
Anyone have any idea as to what the cause may be???
In one of the other posts I remember reading that the heat from the exhaust manifold affects the #5 & #6 pistons due to its' proximity, but it shouldn't affect #1???

 

I have a 95 4runner that has a blown headgasket as I have checked it for hydrocarbons in the exhaust & it tested positive..I called the dealership & they said no recall on the 4runners or atleast mine..is this true or anyone know hwat I can do from here..change it myself I guess unless someone has a better idea for me to ask dealership..
Thanks,Brian

 

I wouldn't trust the steakership. They just may not want to be bothered.
Here is Toyota's number:
toyota case line is 1 800 331 4331
V06 Recall
Good luck