Hi all! I know this is my first post and it's a duzy. Well I have only had this 4runner for about 2 months and I already have to change the head gasket. I hear its pretty common on 95's. Anyways enough rambeling what I need is any advice on the swap. I am pretty mech. inclined but this will be the first time on a 95 4runner, any tricks?

 

Welcome to YotaTech .... sorry to be so rude but search... also it common for all 3vze/3.0L to blow headgaskets if you dont keep up on the maintaince

 

even the 3.4L has HG issues, but yes its common on the 3vze.

when youredo your HG, use NEW headbolts or EPN grade 10.9 headbolts. Replace knock sensor and knock sensor wire whilst in there. Might invest in some www.sea2skytuning.com cams too. EPN also sells oversized valves for these heads too which improves things a LOT from what I hear! (and will soon know - cams and valves!)

 

also adding headers well help but there not cheap

 

Ya I should have done a search first but I've been drinking and kinda lazy. As far as maintence I had just filled up my radiator before leaving for work, and right as I got home to my apt is when it started getting hot. I thought I caught it in time but the next day after refilling everything it started blowing white smoke and fluid was coming out the tail pipe.:cry: I will be posting the tear down pics before and after so everybody wish me luck.

 

It's easier to search than to register and make a new post. Terrible excuse, sorry. I'll make it easy for you since you're so dRunkgsZZ... https://www.yotatech.com/search.php

 

What maintenance can be done to prevent the headgasket from blowing? I would be interested to find out, since I'm on my third one.

I know that headers will help as they help keep the heat away from that corner of the block. The heat produced by the two exhaust meeting at that corner is the major reason why they go out.

 

Make sure the top of your plugs are tan, that tells you that your air fuel is proper. Use a felpro head gasket instead of the stock ones that everyone keeps blowing. Get new head bolts when changing the gasket. Make sure your exhaust has a free flowing place to go. Another good idea is making sure your head isn't warped. Properply torque down the head as specified in any maintenance manual. Make sure your catalytic converter isn't clogged which also seems to be common.

 

Cooling system maintenance, like a good radiator, fan clutch and shroud, coolant, hoses, etc... to keep the engine from over heating.

One big thing with replacing the HGs is make sure you have a left and a right gasket and make sure they go on the correct sides. Too many people have mixed them up and it blocks the coolant flow when they are on wrong.