Hey guys,

My 95' 4runner has 174K and kept overheating. At 35 mph the engine would start to wheeze and smoke but the temp guage remained normal. I could hear the reservoir tank boiling and the overflow line had sprayed the coolant all over the engine. The upper radiator hose was busted so I replaced both. Took it for a drive and it did the same thing. I then pressure tested the radiator, replaced the cap, drive belts and thermostat. Still... overheated. Found out it is a blown head gasket and a missing fan shroud could have been a small issue as well. I'm not familiar with the past history of the vehicle before me. I know these are reliable vehicles most of the time and can last for many more miles than 174K. However, saying all that, I am a woman and no.. I'm not as experienced as I'd like to be. I'm not comfortable with replacing the gasket and feeling "good" about it. This comes to a costly expense by shop. Is it worth the fix? What else happens at 175K normally? Will this turn into a money pit for me? I'm having a hard time with the idea of selling it to a yota fan as a project and getting something else for me without the mechanical issues. Any suggestions, tips or experiences to help me with this decision would be greatly appreciated!

 

175K is potentially half it's life, so I recommend repairing it

There would be quite a few things to check/fix whilst doing the head gasket. Is there a possibility of purchasing a get-around vehicle and repairing it yourself as opposed to paying someone else? Granted is is time consuming, tedious and scary looking, if you think you can handle it, I say go for it!

 

I actually ride my bike majority of the time and the rig is just for fun. What other things might I look at? Any idea what the average mileage for a transmission is? I'm not sure if it's the stock or been replaced before.. you're right! It is a bit scary and I don't have the torque most men do have so I get stuck quite a bit but I'm awfully stubborn.

 

What motor is it and where are you at? It's been known to happen that when somebody is in need of help, work parties are sometimes paid with just pizza and beer. So a little more info could greatly help out.
Good luck and let us know

 

It has the 3.0 L V6. I'm located in Nevada area. I've found some help and they're taking bbq and beer for payment. Good thing for friends! We also have access to a garage with all the tools necessary for the work needed. Next weekend is the plan. Ive got my fingers crossed I have faith in her!

 

Glad to hear it. Good luck and we love pictures