94runner4RJ

Hi all, first I would like to say I am a newbi here but have been reading threads for a couple weeks and you guys are a great source of info! So thanks in advance!

I am buying a 94 runner with 158K and what sounds to be a bad connecting rod bearing. I found a 93 motor with 220K that has a blown HG but said to be in great condition for $200. I was hoping to just swap out the blocks or can I repair the rod bearings without a full rebuild??


Thanks!

abecedarian

Being able to repair the rod bearing will depend substantially on the condition of the crankshaft. Unfortunately, once rod bearings start making noise, the crankshaft journal tends to oval or flatten out so it would likely need re-ground to make it round again.
If the 93 engine doesn't have problems with the crankshaft, then it could be worth it to do the block swap since repairing the 94 would require replacing the head gasket also.

Either way, with that many miles, I would seriously consider doing a full rebuild on either engine. Not out of necessity, but out of caution. Personally, I'd hate to put a used engine in and get my rig running only to find that in 25K it's going to need a rebuild 'cause the rings blew. Get my drift?

94runner4RJ

yes I do....thanks for your input. that helps!

abecedarian

I'm all about saving money when possible but when replacing a known bad with an unknown good, you should consider the ramifications of both. It would be one thing if you could hear the other engine run before buying it so you'd know the rods were at least acceptible. Considering head gasket damage and who knows how long the engine set with coolant in the oil... replacing the crank and rod bearings would be almost a necessity before even trying to start the engine. And then you're doing work you could've done on the original engine....

94runner4RJ

true, you have a good point there.