ck-scooby

Hey everyone-

I have a 1995 4 runner, automatic, 4x4 with the 3.0. Blew the headgasket at 120K. Now my mechanic says $2,200 to fix it. I'm going to try and call Toyota about it, but I'm pretty sure I know what they're going to say. So I've already assumed the worst.

I have a buddy who has a rebuilt engine w/ 0 miles on it (sitting in a crate) for $1,500. 2 year unlimited milage warranty. Also said he has all of the gaskets needed for installation, so all the parts should be there.

My intention is to fix the 4runner and then sell it shortly thereafter and use the proceeds (plus some other cash) to get into a 2006 Tacoma (been wanting to get a new pickup but the damn headgasket blew on the runner before I could trade her in).

Here's my question: I'm wondering if I'd be better off just fixing my current engine and selling it or if I should think about trying to drop the rebuilt engine in instead. I don't have the tools or know-how to do the work myself, so in addition to the $1,500, I'd have to find a shop to put it in (any ideas what that costs? I'll obviously call around to some local shops, but if anyone has any vague ballpark figures now, I wouldn't mind hearing them....I'm in San Francisco Bay Area). I'm just wondering if a rebuilt engine is better that an engine w/ 120K on it with a new headgasket. Also, how would that affect my selling of the vehicle. Is it more desirable with a rebuild in it, or is it a "6 in one hand, half a dozen in the other" type deal. The rest of the vehicle is in good shape, so I'm not just going to leave it "as-is" and sell as salvage. Anyway, I know this is sort of vague and you probably all need more info about the condition of the current engine, etc., but I just wanted to toss it out there. I know a bit about this stuff, but when it comes to complete engine replacement, I won't pretend that I know what I'm doing. Thought I'd ask the experts. Thanks for any comments.

mt_goat

I guess it depends on the condition of your current blown motor. If it's just the HG that would be easy and cheap to fix. But a blown HG can also ruin the rest of the engine depending on how bad it got before you quit driving it and how long it sits with milk shake oil in it.

design311

Sounds like a lot of headache just to get it ready to sell. Maybe you could find someone on one of these boards that would buy it as is. Might try that first, if that doesn't pan out I'd call around and get more quotes on getting your current engine fixed. Just my 2 pennies

kpaxfaq

i paid 1750 to get my head machined, headgasket replaced, timing belt, water pump, oil change, tire rotation...might wanna shop around

mt_goat

Yeah I wish it was close to me, I've got a 3VZ sitting here looking for a new home.