Hi all! Im newbie here and I am glad you all here.
I have a beautifull 91 4runner, v6, 4x4, but now the engine making relatively constant noise (like clanking noise in the engine). My friend told me its the cam. Now concerning to put more damage, I don't want to drive it. Anybody know what happened to my 4runner? Is it fixable or I have to swap it? If I can fix it, how? and if I have to replace it, what "better" engine (for power and gas consumption) I should put it in without changing the mounts? how much it will cost me to swap it? And lastly, any recomendation for mechanic in Van Nuys, CA or nearby? Thanks a lots.

 

welcome to yotatech search for 3.4L swap

 

is it a heavy clanking sound, or does it sound like it could need a valve job?

 

Clanking sounds more akin to rod knocking, which would DEFINITELY be a DO NOT DRIVE until you learn more.

 

The noise is not too heavy, but somewhat irregular. Any idea?

 

It sounds like what mine is doing right now. I have narrowed it down to the timing belt idler bearing or the other bearing there. Came on suddenly, horrified, I thought it could be the cam too. That's where the noise sounds like it's coming from on mine, or from inside the timing belt cover somewhere, hard to say. It's like a constant belt whiny type sound. Only it gets louder as the engine warms up. I think some oil(bad leak@valve cover presently) or PS fluid(also bad leak) got in the timing belt cover and funked some bearings up. I'll be finding out soon, payday the 1st.

 

MudHippy: Oil & PS fluid can only HELP bearings. However, they WILL mess up your timing belt...

 

By adding the word irregular to your description it makes me think the same as mudhippy...

Check all the idler pully's and acessories on the front of the engine.

And if its a rod knocking and you don't plan on rebuilding it yourself, you might as well keep on driving it. It will get worse but from the sounds of your ability you're not going to fix that engine anyway so who cares if it explodes?